Kerala is set to host an international conference focused on promoting women-friendly and gender-inclusive tourism at the scenic Munnar hill station from November 30 to December 2, 2024. The four-day event, titled the Global Women Conference on Responsible and Gender-Inclusive Tourism, is organized by the Kerala Responsible Tourism Mission (RT Mission) Society and aims to spotlight the role of women in the tourism industry.
Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas highlighted Kerala’s pioneering efforts, stating, “Kerala is the first state to implement women-friendly tourism projects to ensure gender inclusiveness, women empowerment, and safety. This is an innovative concept in the tourism sector.” He emphasized the growing trend of women traveling solo or in groups and explained how Kerala’s initiatives encourage this by promoting women’s participation in the tourism economy through homestays, restaurants, and tour packages.
The event will showcase Kerala’s transformative success stories in female-friendly tourism and provide a platform for innovative ideas to promote gender inclusiveness globally. Tourism Secretary K. Biju noted that the project ensures safe and hygienic tourist destinations for women travelers, further enhancing Kerala’s appeal as a women-friendly travel destination.
A press note from the organizers revealed that the conference would bring together institutions and organizations that champion women-friendly tourism initiatives, with a focus on building a global network of gender-inclusive tourism. The RT Mission Society has already supported 18,000 women-friendly tourism projects, with over 70% (17,631) led or owned by women entrepreneurs. This reflects Kerala’s commitment to empowering women through the tourism sector and creating a safe, inclusive travel environment for female tourists.
