The European Commission is seeking four independent experts to serve on the European Heritage Label (EHL) Panel for the next three-year period (2027–2029). The EHL is a flagship programme that identifies and promotes sites of outstanding cultural importance for European history, values and integration. Sites awarded the label are recognised as places that go beyond national significance to embody shared European identity, making them valuable assets for cultural tourism across Europe.

Selected experts will be part of the panel responsible for assessing applications from candidate sites, providing recommendations on award decisions and offering guidance on eligibility criteria. The role requires deep knowledge of cultural heritage, tourism, community engagement and transnational cooperation. Candidates from diverse backgrounds — including cultural institutions, academia, destination management, heritage conservation and tourism research — are encouraged to apply.

The European Heritage Label contributes directly to European tourism by spotlighting destinations that offer meaningful, high-quality cultural experiences that resonate with international visitors. Celebrated EHL sites often become focal points for travel itineraries, educational tours and heritage trails that attract tourists interested in history, culture and identity. Promoting these sites enhances their visibility across Europe’s tourism landscape and strengthens regional development by increasing visitor flows and cultural exchange.

By participating in the EHL Panel, experts help ensure that the label remains credible, authentic and relevant to contemporary tourism needs while reinforcing the importance of shared cultural narratives that transcend borders. EHL destinations — from former political centres to monuments of artistic achievement — enrich Europe’s tourism offer and contribute to more diversified, sustainable and experience-based tourism.

Europe’s cultural tourism sector benefits when heritage sites are recognised at a continental level, encouraging cooperation among local authorities, heritage organisations and tourism stakeholders. The visibility provided by the label can lead to increased promotion in international markets, enhanced educational resources and wider inclusion in thematic cultural routes. All of this supports European goals of year-round tourism development, responsible visitor engagement and community empowerment.

The call for experts is open to professionals with relevant expertise, and interested candidates are invited to submit their applications within the specified deadline. Serving on the EHL Panel provides an opportunity to influence how Europe’s collective heritage is interpreted, celebrated and shared with visitors from around the world.

Full call details are available at:
https://culture.ec.europa.eu/calls/four-experts-sought-for-the-european-heritage-label-panel-2027-2029

#Cultural Preservation #Sustainable Tourism #Responsible Travel  #Sustainable Destinations #Experiential Tourism