ADVANCING SUSTAINABLE TOURISM THROUGH ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY AND EU SUPPORT

Abstract : This report examines the outcomes of a recent European gathering in Brussels1 focused on the intersection of sustainable tourism, economic diplomacy, and EU funding. As Europe faces mounting environmental and economic challenges, the tourism sector must transition to models that prioritize resilience, sustainability, and cross-border cooperation. The event highlighted key EU programs, including the FU-TOURISM2 Accelerator, which supports small and medium-sized enterprises in adopting green and digital practices essential for long-term competitiveness. Through economic diplomacy, the EU fosters cross-border collaborations that enable regions to share resources, align on policy, and develop sustainable tourism practices that benefit local economies and protect cultural heritage. This report concludes that economic diplomacy and EU funding are essential for building a sustainable tourism sector, positioning Europe as a global leader in responsible tourism and resilience.

Introduction : As climate change and global economic shifts impact Europe's tourism industry, sustainable tourism is no longer a distant goal but a pressing necessity. The recent tourism-focused event in Brussels titled "FU-TOURISM Open Day: Belgium Edition" at the European Economic and Social Committee hosted by Finnova Foundation3 gathered EU leaders, regional officials, industry experts, and stakeholders to examine the intersection of tourism, sustainability, and economic diplomacy. Discussions centered around the urgency of promoting green practices within tourism, leveraging EU funding for sustainable projects, and fostering cross-border collaboration. The event emphasized that economic diplomacy and EU-supported initiatives are essential tools to transform tourism into a resilient, sustainable sector that contributes to both local economies and environmental protection.