What Is It and Why
The Ethical Code of Tourism of the Basque Country is inspired by the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism promoted by UN Tourism, but adapted to the idiosyncrasy of the Basque Country. It is a Code developed based on international standards and with the participation of various tourism stakeholders in the Basque Country.
Five years after the first edition of the ethical code and with the methodology already internalized and consolidated, a new edition has been reviewed and designed, with the aim of making it more friendly, approachable, and accessible for all audiences.
In addition, in this second edition the Code has been restructured from 8 principles to 6 principles.
The former principles 1 and 7, which addressed respect for tourists and people, have been unified into Principle 1: Mutual Respect. The former principles 6 and 8, which referred to excellence and workers, have been integrated into Principle 6: Excellence of our sector and its professionals.
2019-2024 Edition
8 principles
1. Contribution to understanding and respect for tourists.
2. Equality, inclusion, and tolerance for diversity.
3. Sustainability.
4. Promotion of local tradition and culture.
5. Preservation of humanity’s cultural heritage.
6. Excellence and professionalism.
7. Respeto a los derechos de las personas.
8. Fair treatment of workers and entrepreneurs in the sector.
2025 Edition
6 principles
1. I will respect tourists and residents. Their habits and traditions. Their fun and their peace and quiet.
2. I will stand for equality in diversity. Whoever you are, whatever you’re like.
3. I will protect our environment, landscapes and natural resources.
4. I will support, use and enjoy local produce and culture.
5. I will safeguard the tourist assets recognised by UNESCO as World Cultural Heritage.
6. I will take care of the tourist trade and the people who work in it.
What is the Tourism Ethical Code and why it matters
A destination is not a pin on a map or a post on social media. It is a territory, a culture, an ecosystem… a living being that feels the changes in the tourism model we are creating as a society. Our choices as tourists and residents matter. The way we experience and generate tourism today is what will allow us to continue doing so tomorrow. And the day after. A legacy of sustainability and ethics for those who come after us.
Aware of global tourism development and the need to achieve responsible tourism, the Department of Tourism, Trade and Consumer Affairs of the Basque Government, through Basquetour, joined the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism in 2014, reaffirming Basque society’s commitment to promoting sustainable and responsible tourism.
This Ethical Code of Tourism of the Basque Country is an adaptation of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, developed thanks to the collaboration of various tourism stakeholders who contributed their perspectives and experiences to the project, taking into account the specific characteristics of our culture and identity. It is a set of general principles designed to guide tourists, tourism agents, and residents toward responsible tourism that respects the environment, people, and their fundamental rights.
If you are a tourism entity, you can join the Ethical Code of Tourism of the Basque Country…
