UN Tourism Launches 'Centre Stage' to Empower Women in Almaty's Tourism Sector
The tourism sector in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is set to see significant changes with the launch of the 'Centre Stage' initiative by the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). This programme aims to empower women, who have historically played a strong role in society and currently make up a large segment of the tourism workforce in the region. However, barriers to their full participation and advancement include lack of financial investment, training, and equal representation in leadership positions.
UN Tourism, in collaboration with Kazakhstan, is providing targeted support to governments and businesses through the Centre Stage initiative. The programme seeks to create more opportunities for women's professional development and leadership in tourism. Key initiatives include a regional conference, a 3-month training programme for up to 200 tourism professionals, an awareness-raising campaign, and an Almaty 'Call for Action' for women in tourism.
The Almaty 'Call for Action' will support women-owned businesses, introduce gender-responsive budgeting, provide more training opportunities, and promote women's leadership in decision-making roles. The city of Almaty, local tourism businesses, and civil society organizations will undertake activities to give visibility to women's contributions and implement measures for their economic empowerment and career progression.
Zoritsa Urosevic, Executive Director of UN Tourism, praised the role of women in shaping the future of sustainable tourism in Kazakhstan and the region. Diyar Askarov, Director of Almaty Tourism Bureau, expressed commitment to supporting women professionals and entrepreneurs in the tourism industry. With the Centre Stage initiative, Kazakhstan has been welcomed to empower women in the tourism sector, promising a more inclusive and equal future for all.
