Rebuilding the European tourism sector in the post-COVID period
20.4.2021
Question for written answer E-002129/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Bogdan Rzońca (ECR)
Prior to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism was seen by the Member States as a fast-growing sector of the economy, responsible for huge revenues for national budgets and citizens. The infrastructure provided for tourism purposes has a positive impact on local development, helping to create jobs even in areas hit by industrial decline. Its importance is reflected in the TFEU, under which the Union must promote, complement and coordinate the action of the Member States in this area (Article 195 TFEU). Since it is connected to other sectors of the economy, it is covered by a large number of projects and European laws in those areas that fall directly within the competence of the EU.
The crisis caused by the pandemic has hit SMEs hardest, and they are struggling to continue operating and access finance. Nonetheless, the crisis may present an opportunity for tourism in the longer term on account of greater digitalisation and environmental sustainability.
- 1.What solutions does the Commission intend to propose to revive the tourism sector in the post-COVID period, which take account of elements such as: supporting digitalisation, promoting smart tourist destinations, promoting decentralised energy supply systems, and improving water efficiency and waste management?
- 2.What action will be taken at Commission level to reach certain social groups with the tourism offering, thereby making it possible to tackle social inequalities in access to tourism?