Harmonisation of accommodation classification systems in the EU

15.3.2016

Question for written answer E-002196-16
to the Commission
Rule 130
Rosa Estaràs Ferragut (PPE)

Although tourism is an important socioeconomic activity and has a multifarious impact on economic growth, there is no specific budget line for it, and actions in this field are spread among a range of funds, pilot projects and measures.

More specifically, the report adopted by the European Parliament on new challenges and concepts for the promotion of tourism in Europe (2014/2241(INI)) highlights the fact that measures such as promoting Europe through its own brand strategy serves as an important tool for strengthening its image, profile and competitiveness as a set of sustainable and high-quality tourist destinations, enabling European destinations to distinguish themselves from other destinations and to attract international tourists.

In this connection, and in line with the concept of promoting Europe’s brand image, the report calls on the Commission and Member States to define a common European system for the classification of tourism infrastructure, which would enable a better comparison of the accommodation offer in Europe and contribute to the establishing of common service quality criteria.

1. How does the Commission think it should promote the initiative to gradually harmonise the accommodation offer across Europe?

2. Is it currently running any programmes for cooperation with tourism associations aimed at framing with them a common European system for the classification of tourism infrastructure?