WTTC Opposes Discrimination Against Unvaccinated Travellers

Following a significant increase in both the level and pace of change in confirmed Covid cases, The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has said that there should not be discrimination against unvaccinated travellers.

‘Covid-19 vaccine stamps’ in passports have been considered by the Department for Transport, and Qantas’ chief executive Alan Joyce has said it would be a “necessity” for passengers to be inoculated before travelling.

Gloria Guevara, WTTC president and chief executive, said: “The WTTC wholeheartedly supports the testing on the departure of all travellers to ensure passengers can prove they are Covid-19 free and thus avoid the spread.

“It will take a significant amount of time to vaccinate the global population, particularly those in less advanced countries, or in different age groups, therefore we should not discriminate against those who wish to travel but have not been vaccinated.

“Only a tiny percentage of people around the world have so far received the vaccine, whereas there are vast numbers who have not, but who could be tested, show a negative result, and travel safely.

“The common-sense approach is to allow the free movement of people who can prove a negative test result, rather than reserve travelling or jobs for a small minority who have been vaccinated.”

She added: “A blanket vaccination requirement would simply discriminate against non-vulnerable groups, such as Generation X, Z and Millennials, who should be able to travel with proof of a negative Covid test.

“WTTC has long been calling for an internationally recognised rapid and cost-effective testing regime at departure points worldwide. This would avoid exporting the virus and aid the restoration of international travel.”

Source: Travel Weekly