Tourism plays a crucial role in the global sustainable development and prosperity. In 2024, the tourism industry generated US$ 11.1 trillion globally, accounting for 10% of the world's GDP, while employing 348 million people corresponding to 10.4% of the total employment. OIC countries received approximately $921 billion in income from the tourism sector, which accounted for 7.3% of their total GDP in the same year. The tourism sector employed more than 50 million people, representing 7.2% of total employment in OIC countries, and its importance has been growing steadily. The annual growth rate of the sector's contribution to GDP was estimated to be around 12% in 2024, while employment in the sector grew at 5.5%, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council estimates (WTTC, 2024).

Tourism is a vital economic sector and essential for sustainable development, as well as it is a cornerstone of cultural exchange that enables connections between peoples and nations worldwide. The abundant historic, cultural, and natural heritage of OIC countries provides numerous opportunities to develop sustainable, ethical, and inclusive tourism, which is essential for social wellbeing and economic progress. However, it is important to recognise that the success of the tourism industry is greatly influenced by people’s choice to travel to a destination, which is significantly impacted by safety, security and the rule of law. Countries that have embraced good governance principles, or are in the process of doing so, have been notably successful in harnessing their tourism potential (Ekine, 2018; Bayar, 2023; Abu, 2024).

In this context, besides improving infrastructure and connectivity, widespread use of digitalisation and information technologies, ensuring security and safety and the efficiency and integrity of public institutions are crucial for the sector’s growth. Notably, among various economic sectors, tourism is particularly sensitive to the quality of governance, effectiveness of institutional frameworks, and control of corruption. This brief study aims to explore how institutional integrity can contribute to the growth of the tourism industry, highlighting the importance of sustainable tourism and good governance. It then examines the challenges to good governance in key tourism sectors, explores proven strategies and practices for reducing corruption in the tourism sector, and finally presents policy recommendations based on the findings.

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• Corruption and Tourism Sector (English)