Hospitality, tourism, human rights and the impact of COVID-19

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to undertake a “real-time” assessment of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the right to participate in hospitality and tourism and to illustrate where such rights are under threat. Design/methodology/approach This discussion is based on a review of current events, assessed through interpretation of a human rights lens. Findings Rights to participate in hospitality and tourism, particularly in parts of Asia, Europe and North America, were affected on a scale unprecedented in peacetime. Research limitations/implications The rights to participate in hospitality and tourism have been challenged as never before. The big questions that will need to be answered going forward are the extent to which such rights will be restored, post-COVID-19. Originality/value This is a “real-time” assessment and will require re-visiting as events unfold over the coming months and years.