Dubrovnik Mayor Highlights Sustainable Tourism Initiatives at OECD Meeting in Paris

Key Takeaways

Dubrovnik has been recognized as a model for sustainable tourism at the OECD Tourism Committee in Paris.
The city’s transformation is attributed to the “Respect the City” initiative, which manages space, traffic, and cultural heritage responsibly.
Mayor Mato Franković emphasizes the need for consistent regulation and political will for sustainable tourism development.

Dubrovnik’s Sustainable Tourism Transformation

At the recent OECD Tourism Committee meeting in Paris, Dubrovnik Mayor Mato Franković showcased the city as a prime example of sustainable tourism management. In front of representatives from 38 member states, he outlined Dubrovnik’s evolution from overtourism challenges to a globally recognized model.

Franković attributed this transformation to the “Respect the City” initiative. This comprehensive strategy incorporates responsible spatial management, traffic control, and preservation of cultural heritage, enhanced by digital solutions like the Dubrovnik Pass and the Dubrovnik Visitor platform. Significant measures include enforcing traffic limits around the Old City, implementing Park & Ride systems, investing in green mobility, restoring cultural landmarks, and adopting electric buses.

He stated, “Sustainable tourism is the tourism of the future,” highlighting the importance of clear regulations, political will, and long-term consistency. Franković described sustainable tourism as not merely a project but a holistic approach to managing a city that honors its residents, heritage, and environment.

Following his presentation, Franković engaged with OECD Deputy Secretary-General Nadim Ahmad, who commended Dubrovnik’s advancements as a source of inspiration for other global destinations. Additionally, the mayor is set to speak at the upcoming Smart Cities and Sustainable Solutions Conference, where he will discuss the integration of digital tools in sustainable urban development.

The acknowledgment from the OECD underscores Dubrovnik’s leadership in shaping policies for sustainable and inclusive tourism, further solidifying its status as a leading European destination in this area.

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