Tzitzikostas Officially Assumes Duties as EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism

The European Commission with the new Commissioners.

Apostolos Tzitzikostas has officially assumed his duties as the EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, marking a significant moment for Europe as tourism is included in a Commissioner’s portfolio for the first time.

Tzitzikostas was sworn in on Tuesday alongside the College of Commissioners before the Court of Justice of the European Union in Luxembourg.

During the swearing-in ceremony, he pledged to uphold the EU Treaties and the Charter of Fundamental Rights, act with full independence in the Union’s interest, and avoid any conflicts of interest.

EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas.

“Today’s ceremony is not just a formality but a commitment to transparency, independence, and sound governance,” he said. “As Commissioners, we pledge to serve the citizens of Europe with integrity and responsibility.”

A new EU tourism strategy for sustainable growth

With tourism is included in a Commissioner’s portfolio for the first time, Tzitzikostas recently outlined the European Commission’s vision for a modern, ambitious strategy for sustainable tourism, emphasizing the need for balanced growth, digitalization, and environmental responsibility.

EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas at the 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos.

Speaking at the recent 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Tzitzikostas highlighted that key initiatives under the new strategy include:

– The European Tourism Transition Roadmap – guiding the industry through the green and digital transition.
– The European Agenda for Tourism 2030 – fostering innovation, collaboration, and shared best practices among EU Member States.
– Addressing major challenges such as climate change, workforce shortages, and digital transformation in tourism businesses.

Tzitzikostas underlined the importance of developing tourism in a way that benefits all regions year-round, reduces pressure on overcrowded destinations, and ensures a positive impact on local communities and cultural heritage.

“We must ensure that tourism remains an economic success without becoming a burden on destinations, local residents, or the environment,” he said.

According to Tzitzikostas, as the European Commission moves forward with this agenda, collaboration between governments, industry stakeholders, and local communities will be essential to shaping a sustainable and resilient future for European tourism.