The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) participated in the 9th edition of the Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit, held from May 20th to 23rd, 2025, in San José, Costa Rica. This year’s Summit, held under the central theme « Tourism from the Perspective of Communities, » emphasized the importance of tourism practices that place the well-being of communities at the core, while upholding the principles of sustainability, social responsibility, and inclusive development.
Jorge Moller, GSTC’s Latin America Program Director, presented the progress of the Yuluca Alliance (AYLAC), a GSTC initiative aimed at advancing sustainable tourism in Latin America and the Caribbean. As part of the event, AYLAC members also gathered for an exclusive in-person meeting on Wednesday, May 21st, at the San José Convention Center.
Fundamental topics were addressed, such as financing opportunities and strategies for member engagement, along with the proposal to organize a new AYLAC gathering. Ideas were exchanged on how to enhance the impact of communications, increase AYLAC’s presence in international summits, and strengthen relationships with academia through student internships and university partnerships. The exchange offered a valuable opportunity to connect, strengthen networks, and share insights on sustainable tourism efforts across the region.
“A wonderful gathering with the stakeholders of Latin America & the Caribbean in the ‘cradle of Sustainable Tourism’ that is Costa Rica… After presenting the AYLAC project before 350 people, we confirmed the great interest in this YULUCA, which means ‘agreement’ in the Kogi language, as a way to advance a shared public policy for our continent. All the countries of Latin America & the Caribbean and their professionals united in this great cause of shaping an action plan under the Logical Framework Methodology (LFM) to develop our communities around Regenerative Tourism and thus protect our living culture and its people. Let’s keep building!” said Mr. Moller.
Overall, the 9th Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit brought together business leaders, government officials, academics, and civil society organizations to exchange experiences, foster partnerships, and promote tourism as a tool for inclusive development.
