Turizem

This exploratory opinion on the request of the Cyprus Council presidency is focused on the implementation of the Startups and Scaleup Strategy, with particular emphasis on the forthcoming European Innovation Act (EIA), planned for 2026. The EU Startup and Scaleup Strategy seeks to make Europe the leading hub for launching and expanding global technology-driven companies, including deep tech ventures. 

The exploratory opinion examines how to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the protection of local communities by regulating short-term rentals, mitigating over-tourism, strengthening connectivity, and promoting sustainable, inclusive tourism across Europe.

This initiative aims to develop responsible, fair and trusted growth in short-term rentals, as part of a well-balanced tourist ecosystem. 

The EESC believes that the Communication on Tourism and transport in 2020 and beyond should be a strategic policy tool for rethinking the EU sustainable model of tourism and transport and calls for a comprehensive package of measures.

Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the action of the Union following its accession to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement on Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications

Impact assessments of any legislative proposals must be integrated and accorded due importance to the economic, social and environmental dimensions, including for SMEs. The Committee has called for the Parliament, the Council and the European Commission to agree on a common methodology on impact assessments and evaluations, which could also serve as a prompt for the Committee. It is extremely concerned by the findings on the shortcomings of social and environmental impact assessments and the follow-up to consultations. It calls on the Commission to be more transparent and to give fully documented reasons why a particular measure or proposal is or is not to be submitted for impact assessment and/or an ex-post analysis.