This archive report was first published on 21 April 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage Europe, the continent's crucial tourism sector is facing an unprecedented crisis. With over 10% of the EU's GDP and 12% of jobs dependent on tourism, the sector has ground to a halt due to travel and lockdown restrictions.
On April 21, 2020, EU Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton called for a special summit to help the tourism sector recover. In a videoconference with the European Parliament, Breton suggested that the summit be held in September or October, allowing the 27 EU states to 'consider the future together and build a roadmap towards sustainable, innovative and resilient European tourism.'
However, Breton's spokesman later revealed that the summit could potentially take place as early as June, coinciding with the continent's peak summer holiday season. This would provide a crucial opportunity for industry leaders, governments, and EU officials to come together and address the challenges facing the sector.
Breton also warned that the coronavirus crisis could lead to outside countries attempting to acquire European travel firms at discounted prices. He emphasized the need for the sector to 'protect itself from aggressive investment strategies from non-European countries.'
