‘Better Balanced Tourism’ will feature a high-level political debate followed by a series of practical case studies. Speakers will include high-level representatives from the European Commission, the European Parliament, and regional governments from across the EU:

• President of NECSTouR, Elena Baena, Andalucia
• Moderator: Mathieu Cuip, Ile-de-France region, Chair of NECSTouR’s Tourism Advocacy Group (TAG), Member of the COTER committee, Committee of the Regions
• Balearic Islands: Margarita Prohens, Rapporteur of the CoR Opinion on Sustainable and Resilient Tourism (tbc)
• Maja Bakran Marcich, Acting Director-General, European Commission DG MOVE
• Elena Kountoura MEP, Vice Chair of the European Parliament’s TRAN Committee
• Daniel Attard MEP, Rapporteur of TRAN report 2025/2120 (INI) for European tourism – destination management and regional tourism growth
• Nikolina Brnjac MEP, Member of the TRAN Committee

The discussions will also focus on how the upcoming European Tourism Strategy (2026) and the Committee of the Regions’ Opinion on Sustainable and Resilient Tourism can provide solutions to this new challenge.

The second half of the event will showcase real-world examples from regions that are already implementing innovative solutions ranging from extending tourism seasonality to managing visitor flows and protecting local communities and environments. Case studies will include initiatives from Europe’s cities and regions offering a diverse look at how different areas are tackling similar challenges.

The objective will be to bring together policy makers, regional delegations and experts to share their experiences so that we can learn from and support each other in dealing with the effects of overcrowding in destinations across Europe. If you are interested and would like to join us, please sign up by completing the form below. Places are limited.

We look forward to seeing you there!