The need to place tourism at the top of the European political agenda was highlighted during the event organized by the Hotel Chamber of Greece (HEE) on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, for the presentation of the HOTREC “Manifesto” which takes up the demands of the European sector. of hospitality in the run-up to the elections to the European Parliament.
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HOTREC sets out five clear priorities for EU decision-making institutions for the next five years:
1. Strengthen tourism. Tourism should be at the heart of EU policy as it is linked to many other sectors and produces 10% of the European gross product.
2. Address skills and labor shortages. Taking effective measures at European and national level is essential to attract, train and retain talent.
3. Guarantee fair digital rules. A fair relationship must be maintained between hosts and online intermediaries. Particular emphasis is placed on ensuring effective short-term rental rules that level the playing field in the accommodation sector and promote fair competition.
4. Invest in sustainability. Create a sustainable business environment and provide adequate EU support to accelerate the green transition in the hospitality sector and enable businesses to invest in decarbonization and sustainable practices.
5. Adaptation to consumer preferences. Striking a balance between meeting reasonable consumer requests for clarity and information and imposing proportionate requirements on accommodation businesses.
The presentation was followed by a debate with the participation of MEP candidates Eliza Vozeberg (ND) and Olga Markogiannakis (PASOK-KIN.AL.), moderated by journalist Makis Provatas.
XEE President Alexandros Vassilikos made the following statement:
“Tourism has a particular weight and importance for the European economy as it supports small and medium-sized businesses and contributes catalytically to employment. This is even more true for Greece. It is the reason why the XEE plays a leading role, so that tourism has the place it deserves in the European agenda. And this must be translated concretely on the basis of the priorities that we have presented, with a funding line. special for tourism and with the creation of a tourism commissioner We listened with great interest to the positions of the MEP candidates who honored us with their presence, we look forward to a productive collaboration with the new European Parliament and. this is why it is particularly valuable to have a strong Greek voice and representation within it.”