EUFED welcomes a resolution passed by a large majority of the Members of the European Parliament on 27 September during the Strasbourg plenary session. MEPs are calling for a new political framework for European tourism based on high quality standards and sound financial support by the European Union to promote Europe as the world's top tourism destination.

“Youth Hostels, operating on a charity basis play an important role for intercultural exchange across and beyond European borders. Therefore, we especially welcome the Parliaments efforts to advocate for a reduced VAT rate applicable to tourism products” said Constanze Adolf, EUFED’s Operating Director.

By 2012, the Parliament asks the Commission to present an integrated strategy that raises awareness of culture, history and nature whilst offering new services in the fields of sport which is an important driver for youth mobility.

According to Carlo Fidanza, Member of the European Parliament and rapporteur of the resolution, tourism accounts for 10% of GDP and 12% of total employment in the EU. Improved mutual recognition by Member States of professional qualifications could facilitate the mobility of workers and help tackle problems stemming from the seasonal nature of work in this sector and reduce the scourge of undeclared work.

According to a recent Eurobarometer survey, the European public is more concerned about climate change than about the economic situation. This is why EUFED welcomes the attention that the Parliament's resolution pays to the impact of tourism on the environment. MEPs call for better planning, particularly in coastal areas, and encourage the use of environmentally friendly transport.

“However, this is by far not enough. The Hostelling International Sustainability Charter is an excellent example that we must have a strong tourism strategy based on sustainability criteria in all its aspects“, said EUFED’s Operating Director. “We hope that the European Commission will soon come up with an integrated strategy to encourage tourism by 2012 that raises awareness of culture, history and nature while offering new services in the fields of sport and youth mobility.“ “We see the resolution as a good sign that the European Parliament starts to understand the huge potential of European tourism in which youth hostels have their role to play“.

Full text of the report

Special Eurobarometer 372 "Climate Change"