Europe is being urged to can set a global example byrestarting the tourism sector in time for the summer peak season.
The plea came from the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) as it called for “strong and co-ordinated political action” to advance plans for a restart of the sector.
The organisation lobbied European Commission vice-president Margaritis Schinas on the issue as latest data showed an 85% fall in tourist arrivals across Europe at the start of 2021.
UNWTO secretary-general Zurab Pololikashvili further emphasised the need for harmonised protocols and digital solutions to make safe international travel possible.
The Commission was praised for taking the lead and advancing plans to launch its Digital Green Pass plus the ‘Re-Open EU’ website and mobile app, both of which complement UNWTO’s own global #RestartTourism campaign.
Pololikashvili said: “Across Europe, millions of people and businesses are depending on the right decisions to be made so that tourism can restart.
Today’s visit of vice-president Margaritis Schinas is testament to the importance of tourism to economic and social wellbeing across the European Union.
“Now more than ever, tourism needs strong political support and joined-up action. Harmonised travel and health rules are essential to restore confidence and restart tourism.”
Schinas added: “With vaccinations and better management of the crisis, there is no doubt this summer will be better than last.
“Reopening borders will have an impact beyond tourism. It will drive Europe’s overall recovery.
“And Europe will not return on its own. Europe is part of the world and we are ready find a way that the European Green Pass works with solutions provided by countries or groups of countries from outside the EU.”