European Tourism development project for 2030

MAKE TOURISM PART OF THE LOCAL ECONOMY

Tourism leads to the discovery of the riches of our natural landscapes, to the unique history of our countries, to our traditional ways of life so much admired, but also takes us back to our dreams, our aspirations, our national imagination.

What could be more wonderful than sharing all this, with our own people and also with all those who are curious about others, about sharing the joys and beauties of the world? Tourism in Europe represents millions of direct and indirect jobs, and essential economic benefits in many sectors. Tourism ensures the transmission of craftsmanship, contributes to the vitality of local cultures. Tourism allows local producers to find markets, restaurateurs to attract passing clienteles, local recipes to endure. Tourism can be a discreet and cross-sectoral economic booster, an opening to the world, an amplifier of national pride.

Too often considered as the fruit of chance, tourism development in the 21st century requires, on the contrary, a strategic approach, a commitment from all stakeholders, and targeted investments. Defining a tourism policy is a complex exercise. Public authorities play a pivotal role in this respect. It involves taking into account the diversity of situations of each activity, each region, and almost each company, raising awareness to include residents, guarantees, and financial aid.

While tourist activity is a daily affair, the tourism strategy must necessarily be part of a long-term vision, a vision that goes beyond the deadlines for loan repayments, or the lure of quick profit…

Relocalized tourism can bring life back to small restaurants and cafes tucked away in rural areas that have all to often been victims of the closing of public services and general desertification in recent decades. Because the desire for autonomy, sociability, and relaxation determines the choice of an increasing number of Europeans when they plan their leisure time, we can each, in our own way, make tourism the driving force behind the revival of the local economy. This study, conducted by the PROTOURISME agency, seeks to enlighten you on public policies, economic levers, and means that can be mobilized to implement a visionary tourism strategy.

Study conducted by Protourisme and supervised by Patricia Chagnon MEP

Study published by the Patriots for Europe Foundation.