According to Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union, tourism-related activities contribute to around 10% of the EU's GDP on average. This includes direct contributions from sectors such as accommodation, food and beverage services, transportation, recreation, and cultural activities. According to data from the European Commission and Eurostat, tourism-related activities directly and indirectly account for around 12% of total employment in the EU.

Of course, the exact contribution may fluctuate due to factors such as changes in travel patterns, economic conditions, and policy decisions; also the number of jobs supported by the tourism sector can vary across different EU member states and regions, depending on factors such as tourism infrastructure, seasonality, and the overall economic environment. Yet, the importance of the sector should not be underestimated.

Key Players in the European Tourism Industry

1. Government Bodies and Agencies

National tourism ministries and local authorities shape tourism policies, regulations, and development strategies. They provide support, guidance, and funding for tourism initiatives, infrastructure projects, and destination marketing efforts.

2. Destination Management Organizations (DMOs)

DMOs are responsible for promoting and managing tourism at the regional or local level. They collaborate with businesses, communities, and other stakeholders to enhance visitor experiences, preserve cultural heritage, and ensure sustainable growth.

3. Tourism Businesses

This category encompasses a wide range of entities, including accommodation providers, tour operators, transportation companies, and attractions. These businesses drive innovation, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the overall competitiveness of the tourism sector.

4. Industry Associations and Chambers of Commerce

Organizations such as the European Travel Commission (ETC), the European Tourism Association (ETOA), and national chambers of commerce advocate for the interests of tourism businesses, provide networking opportunities, and offer research and market intelligence services.

5. Academic Institutions and Research Centers

Universities conduct research, provide education and training programs, and offer expertise on sustainable tourism practices and destination management.

6. NGOs

NGOs play a crucial role in promoting sustainable and responsible tourism practices, advocating for the interests of local communities and the environment, and fostering collaboration and accountability within the tourism sector. Their contributions help ensure that tourism development is inclusive, equitable, and environmentally sustainable.

Relevant Networks

1. European Tourism Network (ETN): The ETN brings together tourism stakeholders from across Europe to exchange best practices, share knowledge, and collaborate on joint initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable tourism development.
2. The European Network for Rural Development (ENRD): ENRD focuses on rural development across the EU, including rural tourism initiatives. It supports networking, knowledge sharing, and capacity building among rural stakeholders to promote sustainable tourism and economic diversification in rural areas.
3. The European Cultural Tourism Network (ECTN): ECTN promotes cultural tourism development across Europe, emphasizing the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage as a key tourism asset. It facilitates cooperation between cultural tourism stakeholders, fosters innovation, and advocates for sustainable cultural tourism policies.
4. The European Environmental Bureau (EEB): EEB is the largest network of environmental citizens' organizations in Europe. While not exclusively focused on tourism, it advocates for sustainable environmental policies that are relevant to the tourism sector, such as climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource management.
5. The European Network of Accessible Tourism (ENAT): ENAT promotes accessible tourism for all, advocating for the removal of barriers to travel and tourism experiences faced by people with disabilities and other accessibility needs. It provides resources, training, and networking opportunities to tourism businesses and destinations seeking to improve accessibility.

Relevant Associations

1. The European Tourism Association (ETOA): ETOA is a leading trade association representing tour operators, travel agents, and suppliers in Europe. It advocates for the interests of its members and promotes sustainable tourism practices while facilitating networking and collaboration within the industry.
2. The European Travel Commission (ETC): ETC is an association of national tourism organizations in Europe, representing over 30 member countries. It promotes Europe as a tourist destination, conducts market research, and supports the development of sustainable tourism strategies at the national and regional levels.
3. The European Destinations of Excellence (EDEN): EDEN is an EU initiative that promotes sustainable tourism development in lesser-known destinations across Europe. It recognizes destinations that excel in sustainable tourism practices and provides support for capacity building, marketing, and knowledge sharing among awardees.
4. ECTAA (European Travel Agents' and Tour Operators' Associations): ECTAA represents travel agents and tour operators in Europe. It aims to promote the interests of the travel industry and provide a platform for collaboration and dialogue.
5. HOTREC (European Hospitality Association): HOTREC represents the hospitality sector in Europe, including hotels, restaurants, and cafes. It advocates for policies that support the competitiveness and sustainability of the hospitality industry.
6. ECM (European Cities Marketing): ECM is a network of city tourism organizations in Europe. It promotes collaboration between cities and shares best practices in destination marketing and management.

Get involved!

Engaging in discussions, forums, and collaborative spaces can help you stay in the loop. You can share your experience, discuss your ideas and in this way shape the future of the tourism industry. By actively participating in networks such as the European Tourism Network and attending events like the European Tourism Forum, stakeholders can contribute to collective efforts towards sustainable tourism development.

On the platform you can use forum and discussion threads to get to know the opinion of others on a certain matter. You can also join a collaborative space to work on a project together with other actors. The easiest way to get involved and gain recognition is making a pledge! Think of what your organization can commit to, find measurable targets, set the deadline and you are ready to go and transform your organisation towards a sustainable and resilient future!