The importance of tourism for job creation and poverty reduction cannot be overestimated. Today, tourism is beginning to be recognized as a major source of economic growth especially in poor countries. However, how at the same time it can be a force for poverty reduction is the theme of this booklet. This booklet outlines the background to poverty reduction approaches and how the ILO is involved within the context of decent work and the United Nations Millennium Development Goals. Recent developments in tourism and a vision for an inclusive, pro-poor tourism industry are summarized.