Knowledge documents
22 June 2026
European Commission factsheet highlights the importance of jobs and skills in tourism
Knowledge documents
22 June 2026
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This European Commission factsheet emphasizes the vital role of tourism as one of Europe's largest employers and highlights the necessity to address increasing skills shortages in the sector. The publication advocates for greater investment in training, digital and green skills, and improved career opportunities to enhance the long-term competitiveness and resilience of European tourism.
European Commission
European Commission
Topics
EU-27
Academic / Research and VET Institutions
Business Support Organisation
Company with 250 or more employees
Cluster Organisations
Consumer Organisations
Destination Management & Marketing Organisations
EU Institutions
Financial Institutions and Investors
Industry Associations and Chambers of Commerce
Local Authorities
Media / Journalist Organisations
National authorities
Networks and Federations / Confederations
NGOs / Non-profits
Regional Authorities
SMEs (a company with less than 250 employees)
Social Economy Entity
Trade Unions
Other
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Specific types of tourism
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Adventure tourism
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Coastal, maritime and inland water tourism
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Cultural tourism
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Ecotourism
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Education tourism
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Festival tourism
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Gastronomy tourism
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Health and medical tourism
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MICE tourism
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Mountain tourism
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Religious tourism
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Rural tourism
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Sports tourism
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Urban/city tourism
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Wellness tourism
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Transition Pathway Strategic Areas
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Pact for skills
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Skills needs for twin transition
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Business activities
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Activities of amusement parks and theme parks
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Activities of associations and other organisations supporting tourism
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Air passenger transport
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Camping grounds, recreational vehicle parks and trailer parks
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Events catering and other food services
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Festivals, cultural and entertainment activities
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Gardens and nature reserves activities
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Holiday Housing / Apartments and other short stay accommodation
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Hotel and similar accommodation
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Mobile beverage services
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Mobile food services
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Museums
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Operation of historical sites
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Other
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Other accommodation
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Other amusement and recreation activities
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Other food and beverage services
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Other holiday reservation services
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Other tourism transportation activities
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Rail Passenger transport
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Recreational and sport activities
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Restaurants, cafes and bars (Food and Beverage serving activities)
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Road passenger transport
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Tour operator activities
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Travel agency activities
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Water (sea, coastal and inland) passenger transport
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Share
Tourism remains one of Europe's most important economic sectors, providing employment to millions of people and creating opportunities for young people, women and workers from diverse backgrounds. According to the European Commission, the tourism industry in the EU employs more than 11 million people and plays a vital role in supporting regional economies and social inclusion.
However, the sector is facing significant workforce challenges, including labour shortages, changing skill needs, and difficulties attracting and retaining talent. The new factsheet highlights the growing importance of digital, green and managerial skills and calls for stronger cooperation between businesses, education providers and policymakers to ensure that tourism has the workforce needed for the green and digital transition.
The publication reinforces the message that investing in people is essential for the future of European tourism. Developing skills, improving career attractiveness and supporting lifelong learning will be critical to building a more resilient, competitive and sustainable tourism ecosystem across Europe.
More information:
https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/document/download/40ae1a2e-7f96-4a8e-bfc6-78a280698279_en?filename=Jobs%20in%20tourism%20factsheet.pdf
#Report #Skills in Tourism #Sustainable Tourism
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