Greek Hoteliers Want Tourism Higher on the European Agenda

HOTREC and HCH President Alexandros Vassilikos.

Elevating tourism on the EU agenda and establishing the position of a tourism commissioner was the focus of an event organized this week by the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels (HCH) in Athens.

The event coincided with the presentation of HOTREC’s “Manifesto”, which outlines policy priorities ahead of EU elections on June 6-9.

According to HOTREC, the umbrella association of hotels, restaurants, cafés and similar establishments, the top 5 priorities for EU policy-makers over the next five years should include:

– strengthening tourism by placing it at the core of EU policy;
– addressing skill and workforce shortages, including offering training and upskilling options;
– ensuring fair digital rules between hospitality businesses and online intermediaries as well as for short-term rentals activity;
– investing in sustainability and providing adequate support to help the hospitality sector accelerate its green transition;
– and achieving a balance between meeting reasonable consumer demands for clarity and information, while imposing proportionate requirements on hospitality entrepreneurs.

These issues were also discussed during HOTREC’s 88th General Assembly held in Budapest earlier this year.

“Tourism holds significant weight and importance for the European economy, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises and contributing to employment. This is even more true for Greece,” said HOTREC and HCH President Alexandros Vassilikos.

Vassilikos went on to add that these priorities can only be achieved with consistent financial support for tourism and the institution of a tourism commissioner position.

European Parliament candidates Eliza Vozemberg and Olga Markogiannaki.

The event was attended by European Parliament candidates Eliza Vozemberg (New Democracy) and Olga Markogiannaki (PASOK-KINAL).