IH&RA – the International Hotel & Restaurant Association – is the only global business organization representing the hospitality industry worldwide. Officially recognized by the United Nations, IH&RA monitors and lobbies all international agencies on behalf of this industry, estimated to comprise 300,000 hotels and 8 million restaurants, employ 60 million people and contribute 950 billion USD annually to the global economy.

The IH&RA is run on a not-for-profit basis with a team led by a Chief Executive. It is governed by a General Assembly and a Board of Directors.

INTRODUCTION & CONCEPT

In 2005 the IH&RA will create an Organization Structure that will see the creation of 6-8 Global Councils that will meet in a “virtual” setting twice per year in order to provide expert opinions on the issues from a global perspective. This will add value for those that are already members in a well run Regional Associations, i.e. AH&LA or HOTREC.

They will:

1. Formulate positions on the issues at hand
2. Introduce new issues for resolution
3. Formulate pro-active strategies to ensure that IH&RA interests are considered & protected

The prime purpose of these Councils is to provide Global input into the IH&RA so that the voice & message that is delivered to the International organizations & agencies is relevant, current, and up to date and reflects the interest of our hotel & restaurant industry members.

The members of the Global Council will be identified by IH&RA’s Chain members (Hotel & Restaurants) who will serve on these panels for periods of two years.

The Global Council will ensure that the IH&RA Website is updated & kept current on the issues and positions in their area of interest.

The IH&RA will act as the coordinator for the meetings and will prepare agendas; minutes/resolutions as requested by each Council plus, will then act as the “presenter” of the Councils views at the appropriate international agencies.
 

AREAS OF SPECIALITY

• Human Resources / Education
• Finance, Taxation
• Legal
• Development
• Marketing / E Commerce
• Real Estate (Time Share & Fractionals)
• International Relations

 

RESULTS / ANNUAL UPDATE

Council Chairs will present findings of the committee at the Annual Congress which will be posted on the Council section of the IH&RA Website (Members Only)

GEOGRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION

IH&RA recognizes the need for Global input and will ensure that wherever possible, representatives from each of the five continents are represented on each Council.