On the occasion of the first Committee of the Regions (CoR) Plenary meeting for the new mandate in Brussels, NECSTouR initiated a strategic dialogue with key CoR Members from the member regions. This effort aims to ensure that the NECSTouR 2030 Pathway priorities are integrated into the future Tourism Strategy promised by Commissioner Tzitzikostas. In addition, it positions NECSTouR as a key stakeholder representing regions and Destination Management Organisations (DMOs) within the European tourism ecosystem.

During the meeting, NECSTouR urged the CoR Representatives to take decisive action to support European tourism by recognising regions as pivotal leaders in establishing the coherent tourism governance framework that fosters competitive and sustainable tourism across Europe, strengthening European tourism governance through the implementation of effective policies that ensure long-term growth benefiting communities, business, and the environment, and advocating for a dedicated tourism fund in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) to provide sustained financial support for the sector.

Through the NECSTouR 2030 Pathway, the network reaffirms its dedication to addressing territorial tourism challenges. This shared roadmap, endorsed by nearly 50 regions and DMOs, focuses on crucial areas such as:

• Destination sustainability and competitiveness
• Climate adaptation and resilience
• Digital transformation and data-driven decision-making
• Addressing skills and labour shortages in the tourism sector
• Ensuring a socio-cultural balance between visitors and residents

NECSTouR seeks to present a unified voice to European policymakers by fostering collaboration among regions. This initiative ensures that the priorities of NECSTouR regions are effectively integrated into the future EU Tourism Strategy, ultimately leading to a more resilient and forward-thinking tourism sector.

We would like to extend our gratitude to the Member Regions’ Brussels Offices for their invaluable support in organising this significant meeting.