by Brian Major
Last updated: 7:50 PM ET, Tue April 28, 2026
The Bahamas has been selected to host the Global Sustainable
Tourism Council (GSTC) 2027 conference, a historic selection
that establishes the destination as a regional pioneer in sustainable
tourism, environmental stewardship, and long-term economic
resilience.
Scheduled to take place from May 18 to 21, 2027 at the
British Colonial Nassau hotel and the Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau, The Bahamas
will share the practical initiatives in ecosystem restoration, nature-based
tourism and destination resilience that have earned it a reputation
as an emerging leader in sustainable tourism.
As the first Caribbean destination to host the event, the
Bahamas looks forward to welcoming the global community in 2027 and leveraging the
opportunity to showcase a destination where sustainability is not only a
commitment, but an active and evolving practice.
“We are pleased to welcome GSTC 2027 to The Bahamas and to
contribute to the global dialogue on sustainable tourism,” said Chester
Cooper, deputy prime minister and minister of Tourism, Investments and
Aviation. “As a Small Island Developing State, The Bahamas brings a unique and
important perspective, and we look forward to showcasing the practical work
taking place across our islands.”
The Bahamas continues to advance sustainability across the
archipelago through practical, on-the-ground implementation. These efforts
include ecosystem restoration initiatives such as coral reef protection and
mangrove preservation, expanded training and certification in nature-based
tourism and flats fishing, and the continued growth of community-based and
cultural tourism experiences that directly benefit local stakeholders.
Supporting mechanisms, including the establishment of Destination Stewardship
Councils in The Bahamas, further integrate community perspectives into tourism
planning and development.
These efforts have gained increasing regional and
international recognition, including recognition from the Caribbean Tourism
Organization for leadership in destination stewardship and resilience, as well
as acknowledgement at the PATWA International Travel Awards (ITB Berlin)
2026, where DPM Cooper was named Tourism Minister of the Year –
Sustainability.
“Sustainability in The Bahamas is being advanced through
coordinated action across our islands, supported by Destination Stewardship
Councils now active on seven islands, alongside continued investment in
nature-based tourism and community-led experiences,” said Latia Duncombe, director
general at The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation.
“Hosting GSTC 2027 positions The Bahamas to
demonstrate how a multi-island destination can operationalize sustainability at
scale while engaging global partners to strengthen long-term resilience,” said Duncombe.
The GSTC is a globally recognized, independent
body that establishes international standards for sustainable travel
and tourism. Through its work, the Council supports destinations in
improving sustainability performance while fostering collaboration, knowledge
exchange, and policy dialogue.
The 2027 conference is expected to attract
approximately 400 delegates, including policymakers, tourism operators,
investors, and sustainability experts from around the world. Interested
participants are encouraged to register to receive updates when early bird
registration opens.
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