Opportunities and obligations in dealing with the disabled staff and customers in hospitality industry

Abstract

Travel and Tourism is a high-growth industry, which is forecast to increase its total economic activity by 4.2% per annum worldwide in real terms over the next ten years (World Travel and Tourism Council, 2006). Travel and Tourism, when taking into account transportation, accommodations, food services, recreational facilities and the related services forms one of the world's most important and wide spread employers. Almost 9% of world employment is comprised of Travel and Tourism and is growing at a current rate of 1 in 11.5 new jobs. There are governmental policies, legal aspects, laws, procedures and moral obligations that relate to the treatment of the disabled staff and disabled customers. Moreover, there are even broader opportunities that can be derived from an understanding of this subject since disability is one of the factors that may cause social exclusion and poverty. In 21st century, people with disabilities are still underestimated as employees, consumers and active participants in society. The purpose of this chapter is to provide a basic introduction to the Equal Employment Opportunities requirements for the Disabled and the Human Rights of Disabled Guests in the Hospitality Industry. © 2008 Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.