1、Created in 1994,the European Committee of the Regions is the EUs political assembly of 329 regional and local representatives such as regional presidents or city-mayors from all 27 Member States,representing over 446 million Europeans.European Union 2023Rue Belliard/Belliardstraat 101|BELGIQUE/BELGI

2、|www.cor.europa.eu|EU_CoR|/mittee.of.the.regions/european-committee-of-the-regions|EU_regions_cities Pand P Studio/SCommission for Natural ResourcesTourismand ruraldevelopmentNAT European Union,2024Partial reproduction is permitted,provided that the source is explicitly mentioned.More information on

3、 the European Union and the Committee of the Regions is available online at http:/www.europa.eu and http:/www.cor.europa.eu respectively.QG-05-23-426-EN-N ISBN:978-92-895-3037-8 doi:10.2863/099682Foreword by Alves Vasco CordeiroPresident of the European Committee of the RegionsThis study is the firs

4、t publication jointly delivered by the European Committee of the Regions and the United Nations World Tourism Organization.It is a clear example of how our mutual cooperation can bridge the local and the global levels in the pursue of our common objectives.It draws on the policy expertise of both or

5、ganisations and highlights the potential of rural tourism to strengthen the economic,social and environmental sustainability of rural areas,contributing therefore to building resilient regional and local communities.Free movement has always been at the heart of the European project:bringing people t

6、ogether,crossing borders,discovering new places and still feeling at home.As part of this mobility,one could say that tourism has helped shaping our European identity.It is also a powerful driver for growth and jobs,able to breathe new life into communities in all corners of Europe.This publication

7、calls attention to regions that account for 83%of the EUs territory and almost 30%of population:rural areas.As diverse as they are,rural areas face a unique set of challeng-es,including demographic changes,risk of poverty,and a lack of access to basic services.This study looks at these vulnerabiliti

8、es and demonstrates how a masterful mix of inspiration,right policy tools and funding opportunities may support and develop rural tourism activities.By doing so,we can address depopulation,help to reduce inequalities,rekindle local economy and support the sense of ownership of local traditions in th

9、ese regions.The European Committee of the Regions places rural areas at the top of its priorities,because as local and regional representatives we know that to achieve a sustainable future,the European Union needs strong rural areas with the full participation of rural communities into the European

10、project.1 2 Foreword by Zurab PololikashviliSecretary General of the United Nations World Tourism OrganizationTourism has the potential to transform societies through stimulating local economic development,reducing inequalities,addressing depopulation,and empowering local communities.Such potential

11、is especially strong in rural areas everywhere.Recognising this,the World Tourism Organization(UN Tourism)is proud to collaborate with the European Committee of the Regions on this important,first-of-a-kind study on the key challenges and opportunities of tourism contributing to rural development in

12、 Europe,in line with the long-term vision for the European Unions(EU)rural areas.Through the sharing of best practices in rural tourism drawn from concrete projects across Europe,as well as focused insights based on interviews with experts,the study effectively complements the UN Tourism for Rural D

13、evelopment Programme.In particular,this study sits alongside the recent UN Tourism Reports on“Tourism and Rural Development:A Policy Perspective”and“Tourism and Rural Development:Understanding Challenges on the Ground Lessons learned from the Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism Initiative”,as well a

14、s theflagship initiative and extensive network of the UN Tourisms Best Tourism Villages,now inits third successful edition.Alongside a comprehensive overview of policies and case studies,the report also provides recommendations based on an analysis of EU funding opportunities.Furthermore,it offers s

15、uggestions to improve the alignment of such funds,which are distributed at the national-lev-el,and their intended impact on the livelihoods of rural tourism stakeholders,together with Europes wider climate ambitions and rural development policies.Finally,in line with the European Year of Skills 2023

16、,the report recalls the need to progress skills development,particularly green and digital skills,investments in vocational training,and education.This way,the employment prospects for the next generation of rural tourism professionals can be improved across the region.We trust this joint effort wil

17、l advance policies supporting tourism and rural development in Europe while also inspiring other regions around the world.3 Executive summary This study analyses both the impact and potential of tourism to foster rural development across the European Union(EU).Its purpose is to provide local governm

18、ents with actionable insights,enabling them to harness the benefits of tourism in rural EU regions effectively.Drawing on a diverse set of research methods,including interviews,case studies,and comprehensive desk research,the study sheds light on the resilience of rural tourism,particularly in the p

19、ost-COVID19 times,marked by a discernible surge in popularity,especially among local travellers.Rural tourism,extending beyond conventional farms stays,emerges as a vehicle for economic diversification,job creation,and the sustenance of local services.Its growth may however be hampered by inadequate

20、 infrastructure,limited financial resources,and declining local populations.The development of rural tourism contributes to economic expansion of rural areas and preservation of their cultural heritage,while fostering community participation.Nonetheless,if not managed properly,it may bring about cha

21、llenges,including environmental impact,economic disparities,and changes in local dynamics.The study also scrutinises the Long-Term Vision of Rural Areas(LTVRA)and assesses its connection with the tourism ecosystem in general.It analyses funding for tourism in rural areas in the past programming peri

22、od and offers insights from three regions in Spain,Poland and Portugal,that successfully created new rural tourism strategies.In conclusion,this study underscores the pivotal role of rural tourism,offering pragmatic recommendations for local governments.It recognises data limitations and advocates f

23、or better data collection and analysis to inform policymaking.Looking ahead,the study calls for ongoing research to deepen our understanding of the intricate relationship between tourism and rural development,ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future.4 Contents Foreword by Alves Vasco Cordeiro.1

24、Foreword by Zurab Pololikashvili.2 Executive summary.3 1.Introduction.5 2.Definition of rural tourism and its role in promoting rural development in the EU.7 2.1.Tourism and rural development.7 2.2.An overview of rural tourism activities in the EU.11 2.3.Challenges and opportunities of rural tourism

25、 in the EU.14 2.4.Possible negative impact of tourism in rural areas.18 3.Analysis of the relationship between the LTVRA and tourism,and assessment of funding.25 3.1.The relationship between LTVRA and tourism.26 3.2.Actions supporting tourism in rural regions in the EU.31 3.3.How to make better use

26、of EU funding programmes to strengthen rural tourism in a sustainable way.35 4.Description of good practice examples.38 5 Conclusions and recommendations.46 References.51 Annex I.Interview questionnaire.62 Annex II.List of interviewees.64 5 1.Introduction As emphasised by the European Commissions Pr

27、esident,Ursula von der Leyen,“Europe would not be whole without its countryside”,rural areas are a core part of the social identity and economic potential of Europe.1 They are home to 137 million people,and over 80%of Europes territory.2 These territories,including peripheral islands,mountainous are

28、as,agricultural hinterland and many more,are widely recognised and valued for food production,management of natural resources,protection of natural landscapes,as well as recreation and tourism.3 However,they face a set of challenges including demographic changes,lower transport infrastructure densit

29、y,lower access to training and high-quality education,fewer employment opportunities,and a higher risk of poverty.On top of that,although a quarter(25%)of the population of the EU live in rural areas,4 this rate has been falling gradually over the years,mainly due to the out-migration and ageing of

30、the societies.5 It is expected that by 2050 the population in European rural areas will have decreased by more than 10%compared to 2022.6 Furthermore,people in rural regions generally have a lower level of income than their counterparts in cities,towns and suburbs.7 To ensure that rural areas can co

31、ntinue to play an essential role in the EU,the European Commission has set out its Long-Term Vision for the EUs Rural Areas(LTVRA)up to 2040 that identifies areas of action to ensure stronger,connected,resilient and prosperous rural areas and communities.One of the policy areas that is seen as an op

32、portunity is rural tourism.It is believed that rural tourism can be a sector that brings new possibilities to local rural communities and helps rural ecosystems,generating new momentum that increases the regions attractiveness.1 EC(2021).Communication From The Commission To The European Parliament,T

33、he Council,The European Economic And Social Committee And The Committee Of The Regions Empty A Long-Term Vision For The EUs Rural Areas Towards Stronger,Connected,Resilient And Prosperous Rural Areas By 2040.2 Ibidem.3 Ibidem.4 Eurostat(2022),Urban-rural Europe income and living conditions.5 Eurosta

34、t(2022).Urban-rural Europe demographic developments in rural regions and areas.6 Ibidem.7 Mean and median income by degree of urbanization(Eurostat database).6 Although tourism has been one of the relevant sources of development in rural areas since the 1970s,with the new opportunities now being bro

35、ught by changes in consumption pattern and new ways of living,it currently holds considerable potential for stimulating local economic growth and social change.By creating effective complementarity with other economic activities,its contribution to GDP and job creation,and its capacity to spread out

36、 demand throughout the year and across a wider area,is growing.The aim of the study is to provide a brief analysis of the main barriers and enablers of tourism as part of rural development in the European Union(EU)from the perspective of subnational governments.By analysing the trends in rural touri

37、sm development,and identifying challenges as well as opportunities,this study also examines policies and financing mechanisms supporting the development of rural tourism.It aims to equip local and regional authorities with knowledge and policy recommendations facilitating the implementation of rural

38、 tourism in rural areas.The study is based on a mixed-method approach,including desk research complemented by insights from 8 interviews with relevant stakeholders,8 and case studies of regional policies for rural tourism development.8 The interview questionnaire and list of the interviewed stakehol

39、ders are included in Annexes I&II of the report.7 2.Definition of rural tourism and its role in promoting rural development in the EU 2.1.Tourism and rural development According to the World Tourism Organization(UN Tourism)tourism is defined as“a social,cultural and economic phenomenon which entails

40、 the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes”.9 Several categories of tourism can be found in literature,looking at the origin of travellers or their destination.10 The UN Tourism has a complex but comprehensive categor

41、isation of tourism derived from the destination and purpose of the trip.Figure 1.Types of tourism according to destination and purpose of the trip Source:CASE own elaboration,based on UN Tourism(2019).UN Tourism Definitions.The EUs tourism ecosystem is highly diverse and complex,covering globalised

42、and interconnected value chains.For many years now Europe has been the worlds leading tourism destination and has benefitted from new jobs,additional income,9 UN Tourism(n.d.).Glossary of tourism terms.10 Ibidem.8 and other opportunities that tourism brings.11 While European tourism recorded serious

43、 losses during the COVID-19 pandemic,with 51 million fewer Europeans travelling for personal purposes in 2020,12 current data(up to 2022)confirms that the sector has already completely recovered,reaching the pre-pandemic levels of tourism trips(Figure 2).Such a rapid recovery only confirms the resil

44、ience of the tourism sector,and the fact that travel is a part of the European way of life.Out of 3.2 million tourism businesses in 2019,99.8%were micro,or small and medium enterprises(SMEs).13 This means that small companies,often family holdings,are the backbone of the sector.That gives it authent

45、icity and uniqueness,but at the same time may be a barrier to growth,due to limited resources available for training and adaptation measures.Figure 2.Arrivals at tourist accommodation establishments in EU Member States(2013-2022).Source:CASE own elaboration,based on Arrivals at tourist accommodation

46、 establishments in EU Member States(Eurostat database).In 2019,the last year before the COVID-19 pandemic,the gross value added directly generated by tourism amounted to an estimated 572 billion,or 5%of the total gross value added in the EU economy.14 At that time tourism-related activities employed

47、 over 12.5 million people,comprising more than 22%of 11 Parliamentary Assembly(2002).Tapping Europes tourism potential.12 Share of the EU population(aged 15 and over)participating in personal trips(Eurostat database).13 Structural business statistics(Eurostat database).14 Eurostat(2023).Tourism:572

48、billion gross value added in the EU.9 people employed in the services sector and nearly 10%of people employed in the non-financial business economy.15 16 Looking at the first data on post-COVID employment in tourism,the industry has evidently been rebuilding itself since the pandemic,and the EU saw

49、the recovery period as a new opening for creating more resilient,green and digital tourism.17 With EU tourism reaching a decade high in the first half of 202318 it represents an important economic and developmental opportunity.Changes in consumer behaviour observed during the pandemic,namely prefere

50、nces for travel closer to home,longer stays and higher spending,responsible travel and the emergence of nature and rural tourism,19 are having a significant impact on post-pandemic travelling patterns.These new trends in tourism can already be backed up by data.For example,82%of Europeans are ready

51、to change at least some of their travel habits to be more sustainable,while 48%want their trip to involve less waste.According to the European Travel Commission(ETC),travel demand,accommodation and activities offered will evolve markedly over the coming years to react to consumer expectations concer

52、ning the carbon footprint of the tourism sector.20 On top of that,more than half of EU citizens wish to consume locally sourced products when on holiday,41%of them want to travel to less visited destinations,and 48%want to travel outside of the high tourist season.The increased interest in domestic

53、travel,largely seen as a lasting effect of the pandemic,is also seen in travellers behaviour.In 2022 the number of nights spent by domestic guests in tourist accommodations exceeded the 2019 level,21 and in the first half of 2023 it increased by a further 5.8 percentage points.22 Although the touris

54、m industry was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic,rural tourism,offering accommodation in remote areas with a lower density of visitors,has been gaining more interest among tourists.This trend 15 Eurostat(2023).Tourism industries employment.16 EC(n.d.).EU Tourism Dashboard.17 Council of

55、 the European Union(2022).Council conclusions on European Agenda for Tourism 2030.18 Eurostat(2023).EU tourism at a decade high in the first half of 2023.19 WTO(2023).International Tourism Highlights,2023 Edition The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism(20202022).20 ETC(2022).Restarting Tourism for the Bet

56、ter:Performance of European Tourism Before,During&After COVID.21 Eurostat(2023).EU tourism nights recover to 95%of 2019 level.22 Eurostat(2023).EU tourism at a decade high in the first half of 2023.10 continues in the post-pandemic period(with domestic travel gaining popularity).23 24 25 Rural touri

57、sm complementing other economic activities and contributing to GDP and job creation,while also having the capacity to spread out demand throughout the year(thus combating seasonality)and across wider areas constitutes considerable potential for stimulating local economic growth and social change.26

58、The stimulating potential of rural tourism is especially important considering that most rural areas are among the most vulnerable regions in the EU,with GDP per head generally lower in rural and intermediate regions than in urban regions.27 However,structural challenges such as weaker transport inf

59、rastructure,under-developed digital connectivity,lower quality public services,or growing skills shortages and the related youth brain drain may complicate tapping into rural tourism potential.Several EU policies support rural areas and can be used to address these challenges:the Common Agricultural

60、 Policy(CAP),regional,cohesion and social policies,and a number of other EU policies related to energy,transport,connectivity,employment,environment and the climate.In June 2021,the European Commission published a communication setting out a long-term vision for the EUs rural areas(LTVRA)up to 2040.

61、One of the policy areas within the LTVRA that is seen as an opportunity to strengthen the socio-economic fabric in rural areas,particularly through job creation,is tourism.Despite the increased interest in the rural tourism following the pandemic,it is worth noting that rural or farm-based tourism a

62、ctivities have a long tradition in Europe.The Alpine regions,Tatra mountains,Mediterranean parts of Europe and 23 UN Tourism(2023).International Tourism Highlights,2023 Edition.24 Tourism Economics(2021).Rural destinations fare better as consumer preferences shift.25 Marques Santos A.et al.(2020).Be

63、havioural changes in tourism in times of Covid-19.26 EC(2021).Commission Staff Working Document Accompanying The Document Communication From The Commission To The European Parliament,The Council,The European Economic And Social Committee And The Committee Of The Regions A Long-Term Vision For The EU

64、s Rural Areas Towards Stronger,Connected,Resilient And Prosperous Rural Areas By 2040.27 EC(2021).Communication From The Commission to The European Parliament,The Council,The European Economic And Social Committee And The Committee of The Regions A Long-Term Vision For The EUs Rural Areas Towards St

65、ronger,Connected,Resilient and Prosperous Rural Areas By 2040.11 Lake Balaton have a long record of the presence of such tourism activities,which are now also spreading around the rural areas of the EU.28 Nowadays,rural tourism can be understood as a broader term than agritourism or farm tourism,bei

66、ng a diversification of the rural economy that provides opportunities for expanding diversified rural economic activities,generating income from urban areas and from abroad,and maintaining the service base in the region.29 According to UN Tourism,rural tourism is a type of tourism activity in which

67、the visitors experience is related to a wide range of products generally linked to nature-based activities,agriculture,rural lifestyle/culture,angling,and sightseeing”.30 The activities connected to rural tourism take place in non-urban(rural and predominantly rural)areas with the following characte

68、ristics:(1)low population density,(2)landscape and land-use dominated by agriculture and forestry and(3)traditional social structure and lifestyle.31 2.2.An overview of rural tourism activities in the EU Tourism can be seen key economic,cultural and social activity,contributing to growth and employm

69、ent in the EU,its Member States and their regions and cities.For example,tourism is one of the cornerstones of the Spanish economy and an outstanding driver of economic and social development.In 2017 it accounted for 11.8%of GDP and in 2018 sustained 13.5%of employment(or 2.6 million direct jobs).32

70、 In the region of Andalusia,tourism is the second most important industry within the economy,accounting for 13%of the regional GDP.33 Rural areas have for many years enjoyed considerable popularity among tourists in the EU(Figure 3).Although rural tourism fell significantly with the COVID-19 pandemi

71、c,it regained its popularity quite quickly34.28 Bojnec.(2010).Rural Tourism,Rural Economy Diversification,and Sustainable Development.29 Ibidem.30 WTO(2019).UN Tourism Tourism Definitions.31 Ibidem.32 OECD(2020).Tourism Trends and Policies 2020.33 Investicia Andalusia(n.d.).34 UN Tourism(2023).Inter

72、national Tourism Highlights,2023 Edition.12 Moreover,up to 2016 the number of nights spent at tourist accommodation in rural areas surpassed the number of stays in cities,as well as in towns and suburbs.As data in the figure below shows,the impact of COVID-19,although visible by the drop in the numb

73、er of visitors,was less significant than in urban areas.Rural areas seem to be recovering quicker,attracting higher numbers of visitors(also in the post-pandemic period),proving the resilience of the rural tourism sector.Figure 3.Nights spent at tourist accommodation by degree of urbanisation(201320

74、21),EU Member States Source:CASE own elaboration,based on Nights spent at tourist accommodation by degree of urbanisation in EU Member States(Eurostat database).Tourism levels also vary across EU Member States.The number of nights spent at tourist accommodation in rural areas(according to the most r

75、ecent data from 2021)is highest in France,Germany,Italy,Greece,Austria and Spain.In contrast,lower levels of nights spent in rural areas are noted in Malta,Luxembourg,Slovakia,the Baltic States(Latvia,Estonia,Lithuania),but also in Iceland,Serbia and Cyprus.35 35 Nights spent at tourist accommodatio

76、n by degree of urbanisation in EU Member States(Eurostat database).13 Figure 4.Nights spent at tourist accommodation establishments in rural areas(2021)in the EU Member States Source:CASE own elaboration,based on Nights spent at tourist accommodation by degree of urbanisation in EU Member States(Eur

77、ostat database).When analysing the data,one has to bear in mind that rural tourism activities might be somewhat underestimated.Many farm accommodation enterprises are financially integrated into the agricultural activities of the farm,with profits from accommodation set off against possible losses o

78、n the farm.An accurate assessment of job numbers also poses difficulties as many inhabitants of rural areas work in multiple jobs,sometimes in different sectors.36 As a result,the real share of rural tourism in the rural regions might be slightly underestimated.According to the Commission,rural tour

79、ism activities are gaining in attractiveness,with new preferences for low-density,remote destinations and an increase in more sustainable and eco-inclusive consumer behaviour,especially among younger generations.37 This trend is prevalent all around the world.As the UN Tourism study has shown,all co

80、untries across the 78 surveyed expect rural tourism to grow in importance:95%of responses from the 19 EU Member States 36 EP(2013).Industrial Heritage and Agri/Rural Tourism in Europe.37 EC(2021).Tourism capacity,expenditure and seasonality in Europe by urban-rural typology and remoteness.14 estimat

81、ed the prospects for rural tourism as“much better than now”or“better than now”.38 2.3.Challenges and opportunities of rural tourism in the EU Despite the potential of rural tourism,there are significant regional gaps in economic,infrastructural and social development that could hinder its growth.A l

82、ot of non-urban areas in the EU are experiencing demographic decline,lower income,poorer access to public infrastructure and connectivity,as well as limited vocational education and training(VET)opportunities,which could delay the digital and green transition.The challenges that might adversely affe

83、ct tourism as a means of rural development are categorised into 7 groups in the figure below.Figure 5.Categorisation of challenges related to rural tourism Source:CASE own elaboration,based on UN Tourism(2023).Tourism and Rural Development:A Policy Perspective.Infrastructure,population and the econo

84、my,coupled with governance and financial mechanisms,are identified as the most pressing issues for rural tourism development.The UN Tourism representative highlighted that infrastructure-related challenges are ranked the highest,with deficiencies in road,ports,airports 38 UN Tourism(2023).Tourism an

85、d Rural Development:A Policy Perspective.15 and other infrastructure hindering access to rural areas39.These deficiencies make it more difficult for tourists to reach their destination.The stakeholders engaged in agritourism interviewed for the study confirmed that without well-developed connections

86、 between urban and rural regions,enabling the easy movement of tourists,their expectations of social and environmental responsibility are not met.Such a situation might decrease rural regions appeal to tourists,while also causing discontent in local communities.One of the responses of the LVTRA in s

87、upporting rural tourism is to improve the transport infrastructure,40 especially since as many as 44%of rural residents point to it as a main need that should be addressed.41 Problems with digital connectivity are also seen as an important obstacle to the development of rural tourism.42 The gap betw

88、een regions remains significant to this day,with 60%of EU rural households having high-speed internet access,compared to the EUs overall average of 86%.During the LTVRA consultations,93%of the respondents strongly believed that over the next 20 years the attractiveness of rural areas would depend si

89、gnificantly on the availability of digital connectivity.43 The studys interviewees also expressed their concerns regarding the need for better digitalisation.Due to gaps in connectivity and digital skills,rural stakeholders might not be ready to fully seize the potential of the upcoming new technolo

90、gies,such as digital marketing,online booking platforms,smart tourism solutions,and AI tools.Today,an online presence is a must,since online booking channels are the most popular means of organising trips among Europeans.44 However,only 46%of the rural population have at least basic digital skills.4

91、5 Supporting proper human resources through upskilling is an indispensable need for tourism growth.During the interviews,rural tourism trade organisations added that the lack of appropriate 39 Interviewee no.8 40 EC(2021).Commission Staff Working Document Accompanying The Document Communication From

92、 The Commission To The European Parliament,The Council,The European Economic And Social Committee And The Committee Of The Regions A Long-Term Vision For The EUs Rural Areas Towards Stronger,Connected,Resilient And Prosperous Rural Areas By 2040.41 Eurobarometer(2021).A long term vision for EU rural

93、 areas.42 Interviewees 1&2.43 EC(2021).Connectivity:key to revitalising rural areas.44 Eurobarometer(2021).Attitudes of Europeans towards tourism.45 EC(2022).Education and Training Monitor 2022.16 human resources and training is a serious obstacle limiting rural tourism development.46 Another common

94、 challenge found by UN Tourism and confirmed by the interviewees is the shortage of tourist offerings such as local attractions,47 or the limited availability of restaurants or other options for eating out.48 Additional obstacles,noticed by the stakeholders,stem from limited entrepreneurial and mana

95、gement skills and the lack of collaboration between businesses.This hinders the integration of rural value chains in tourism that could maximise economic benefits and create synergies between the various goods,products and services of the local economy.Tourism requires consideration of the impact of

96、 climate change and the surrounding natural resources and environment when developing destinations.Climate change mitigation and adaptation measures should always be part of the smart and sustainable tourism strategies at national,regional,and local levels.49 Apart from sustainability principles,cli

97、mate is considered an important factor influencing tourism demand(affecting the choice of tourist destinations,activities and seasonality).At the same time,despite many identified challenges,all the interviewed stakeholders confirmed the huge potential of tourism development for the prosperity of ru

98、ral regions.They see it as a unique way of supporting the revitalisation of rural communities in the long term to promote sustainable and inclusive growth.50 Tourism activities also have great potential in valorising natural and cultural resources,as well as engaging the local community in the devel

99、opment of tourist services and adding value to local products.51 A categorisation of opportunities related to rural tourism is presented in the figure below.46 Interviewees 1&2.47 Interviewee 6.48 Interviewee 6.49 EC(2023).Regional Impact of Climate Change on European Tourism Demand.50 UN Tourism(20

100、20).2020 Year of Tourism and Rural Development.51 Interviewee 5.17 Figure 6.Categories of opportunities related to rural tourism Source:CASE own elaboration,based on UN Tourism(2023).Tourism and Rural Development:A Policy Perspective.As confirmed,in many cases the challenges are related to the gener

101、al vulnerabilities,such as the need for better infrastructure development,stagnating economy and depopulation.Tourism can generate new jobs,reduce poverty,contribute to gender equality and increase regions attractiveness.Rural tourism can also help with the protection and promotion of cultural and n

102、atural resources.As remarked on by a representative of a local tourist organisation in Poland,52 the growing market for local products can spark interest in reviving forgotten traditions and finding new ways to commemorate local historical events.This may help promote local products grounded in loca

103、l tradition,and lead to recognition for their unique composition,texture,taste or manufacturing technique.Indeed,the EU has supported such activities and products through its policy on geographical indications and quality schemes,which establishes intellectual property rights not only for the name o

104、f a product,but also for its composition or means of production.53 52 Interviewee 3.53 European Commission(n.d.).Geographical indications and quality schemes explained.18 Moreover,rural tourism has the ability to empower local communities and strengthen ties between the inhabitants.A representative

105、of a local tourist organisation in Poland54 described how local residents help each other with the growth of businesses by offering customers products from their local community.The diversification of products among local enterprises means that while a vineyard produces wine and receives visitors,so

106、me nearby farm may add local cheeses or hams.Communal activities may also provide an opportunity to empower vulnerable groups.One such example could be country housewives associations(Koa Gospody Wiejskich),which have a long tradition of operating in Poland and uniting women who engage in upholding

107、local culture.55 These associations,which are often involved in agritourism,offer insights into local activities,as well as a social circle with a platform representing local womens interests.Rural areas can also serve as resilient destinations during times of crisis,as they offer isolation and oppo

108、rtunities for leisure away from large population centres.56 2.4.Possible negative impact of tourism in rural areas Tourism,regardless of its enormous advantages,can also be a source of negative externalities for local communities,the economy and the environment.The existing literature suggests that

109、intensified tourism might negatively affect cultural identity or bring about change in regional fauna and flora.It might also hamper access to public services,or local peoples access to properties.Such effects can have a particular impact in regions with significantly underdeveloped infrastructure,c

110、onnectivity,or public transport.We identify three types of negative externalities that might be detrimental to the local environment,local economy,or the local society and culture.Environmental impacts Poorly planned tourism development can have an adverse impact on the natural environment in rural

111、areas.57 Its protection is an important priority for the EUs 54 Interviewee 3.55 Olejniczak(2021).Kierunki aktywnoci k gospody wiejskich.56 Interviewee 8.57 EC(n.d.).Tourism capacity,expenditure and seasonality in Europe by urban-rural typology and remoteness.19 citizens,65%of whom consider the dest

112、ruction of natural habitats or the loss of animals or plant species“an immediate and urgent problem”.58 As stated by a representative of a Polish local tourist organisation,59 the presence of tourists meaning an increased number of people exploiting the resources of an area has to be taken into acco

113、unt,for example when planning waste management services.60 A good example of managing this issue can be seen in the island of Sardinia,serving as a model for Zero Waste thanks to their recycling efforts and local initiatives implementing a door-to-door separate collection system where the municipali

114、ties themselves are held accountable and are either punished or rewarded for the amount of waste they produce.This is at the forefront of the ECs actions.According to the Nature Restoration Law,the new goal is to restore at least 20%of EU land and sea by 2030,and all ecosystems in need of restoratio

115、n by 2050.In this case,the objective is to limit potential negative externalities from tourism,such as environmental degradation for example by controlling private transport and promoting green public transport,which,as mentioned earlier,is at this point largely unavailable.Negative externalities am

116、ong which we include changes in the composition of flora and fauna such as the destruction of habitats,the killing of animals,and the destruction of valuable species for plant collection and wood exploitation,and others should be considered early on and appropriate action should be planned in advanc

117、e.The increased pollution caused by the limited capacity of public services supporting waste management and sewage treatment,with the increased number of people in the region,might lead to water pollution,waste pollution,and local discontent.Air pollution may also be more apparent,and likewise the n

118、oise pollution caused by the increase in traffic and tourist activities.Other negative externalities are related to the potential usage of the natural resources by rural tourism and the increased activities of tourism stakeholders(businesses and tourists).They include:58 EC(2021).Attitudes of Europe

119、ans towards tourism.59 Interviewee 3.60 Zero Waste Europe(n.d.).Sardinia demonstrates that islands can achieve zero waste.20 littoralisation the concentration of economic activity in coastal areas,which can be heightened through the development of tourism;higher use of fossil fuel resources for ener

120、gy usage(including reliance on air conditioning during summer in island areas);soil erosion,due to the increased soil exposure;damages to river banks and rivers;decrease in water resources(in some cases leaving the local population with a limited water supply);and an inferior visual impression.Econo

121、mic impacts As much as tourism may have a tremendously positive impact on the local economy(as with the case of the Andalusia region presented in the following chapter),it may also have a negative impact on local economic life.The increased demand for food and services,as well as new investments in

122、land and housing may produce a direct increase in property and commodity prices.In addition,the increase in demand for products that cannot be locally met may result in the import of products from elsewhere and,in consequence,economic leakage.61 Such leakage occurs when money leaves the regions loca

123、l economy due to the fact that a local consumer has purchased a product or service from a supplier located outside the region.There can also be negative consequences of investing in tourism,since tourist infrastructure often generates high costs and requires not only construction but also maintenanc

124、e,especially since it is used by large groups of people.Like any other sector,tourism requires funds,which could potentially be allocated elsewhere.In regions receiving large numbers of tourists,there is often big demand for real estate to cater for the tourism industry,including for workers in tour

125、ism.This leads to rising property prices,which is good for the property owners but can be problematic for locals wanting to purchase a property.Online short-term rental(STRs)platforms such as Airbnb have grown spectacularly over recent years,strongly impacting the affordability of housing in tourist

126、 destinations.For 61 C.Frent(2016).An overview on the negative impacts of tourism.21 example in Portugal,on average a 1 percentage point increase in a municipalitys Airbnb share results in a 3.7%increase in house prices.62 Moreover,the use of land for summer houses in rural areas may lead to land su

127、b-utilisation or limit housing opportunities for locals.63 Concentrating all economic activities around tourism can evidently have dire consequences.Tourism relies heavily on the visitors preferences,and can be influenced by factors impossible for the owners of rural businesses to control.A represen

128、tative of a local tourist organisation in Poland64 highlighted such factors as the war in Ukraine or the COVID-19 pandemic as possibly having a large impact on tourism,their effects often both unpredictable and unavoidable from the business owners perspective.Similarly,southern European travel desti

129、nations(including Greece and its island of Rhodes)may lose their appeal in the long run due to heat and wildfires.Furthermore,tourism is highly seasonal,and this can only be catered for to a certain extent.As representatives of rural tourism trade organisations mentioned,65 many activities,such as k

130、ayaking or skiing,are strictly seasonal.In the most frequented tourist region in the EU(at NUTS level 2)Jadranska Hrvatska in Croatia the two busiest months of the year accounted for 68.7%of total nights spent there.66 However,some countries and regions have managed to partially combat tourism seaso

131、nality like some mountainous areas,which have two peak tourist seasons(summer and winter).Unfortunately,some forms of tourist activity also limit the extent to which local communities can benefit from their presence.One example,mentioned by the representatives of rural tourism trade organisations,67

132、 is that of cruises,during which the tourists can visit even remote coastal regions,but eat and sleep on their ship,thereby not contributing to the local economy.In view of such cases,it is crucial to ensure that travellers actually spend their money in the places they visit.Tourism can also constit

133、ute a threat to local forms of governance if it becomes a dominant economic force.This situation can lead to shifts in power dynamics,and have an impact on traditional decision-making processes.Local leaders and 62 Franco S.et.al.(2021).The impact of Airbnb on residential property values and rents:E

134、vidence from Portugal.63 Interviewee 8.64 Interviewee 3.65 Interviewees 1&2.66 Eurostat(2022).Tourism statistics at regional level.67 Interviewees 1&2.22 institutions may prioritise the interests of the tourism industry over those of the broader community,potentially changing traditional governance

135、structures.Shifts in traditional economic sources related to rural value chains can occur when tourism becomes the leading economic force.Reducing the diversity of economic possibilities in rural communities might increase their risk to external factors.68 Socio-cultural impacts The socio-cultural i

136、mpacts concern the ways in which tourism is contributing to changes in value systems,individual behaviour,family relationships,collective lifestyles,moral conduct,creative expression,traditional ceremonies and community organisation at a tourist destination.69 Tourism can provide some improvements a

137、nd changes in quality of life,the social structure and social organisation of local society,family relationships and lifestyles,or even improve education in the region,develop a tolerant environment,drive progress in womens rights,improve leisure-time activities and recreational benefits,develop awa

138、reness of historical and cultural values,lead to foreign language learning,create new professions and bring about the emergence of new social institutions.70 However,poorly planned tourism can mean that villages are invaded by visitors(both international and national)with different values,disrupting

139、 rural culture and changing the size of the host population and its demographic structure and lifestyles.71 Without the proper management plans and tools in place,increased visitor numbers can pose threats to rural heritage.As emerging destinations,rural areas may face an increase in visitors before

140、 being able to respond with proper management mechanisms.72 Social and cultural differences that can arise between tourists and the resident population may lead to conflicts between these two groups and inside the host communities,or create social problems73 such as overcrowding of rural areas,traff

141、ic congestion,or even rising crime.68 Interviewee 8.69 Pizam A.,Milman A.(1984).The Social Impacts of Tourism.70 Akova O.,Atsiz O.(2019).Sociocultural impacts of tourism development on heritage sites.71 Ibidem.72 Interviewee 8.73 C.Frent(2016).An overview on the negative impacts of tourism.23 The ra

142、tio between the number of local residents and the number of holiday home owners and tourists is important for the way a local community receives tourists.A higher share of holiday home owners,especially seasonal,can lead to depopulation and in consequence a decrease in public services outside the se

143、ason.The stakeholders active in rural tourism development confirmed that this might be a problem in many rural areas,highlighting that there is a need for a destination management tool that would help business owners and local authorities monitor the tourist flow.It is natural that some places are m

144、ore popular than others,and that some struggle with what is termed“overtourism”.A classic example of overtourism is Hallstatt in Austria visibly missing a management solution like fixed maximum contingents.74 Establishing proper management measures and promoting responsible tourism practices is nece

145、ssary for the planning of sustainable tourism that takes cultural and environmental preservation into account alongside the well-being of the community.The use of data to properly monitor rural destinations status could provide early alerts on threats and negative impacts,while also providing insigh

146、ts to measure the impact of positive actions.75 Evidence-based spaces for communication are also important.In another example from the mountain region in Austria,bikers did not respect the official routes,and it was believed that the negative environmental impact was caused by incoming tourists.Afte

147、r analysing the situation with data from the mobile phones,it turned out that 80%of violators were locals.To prevent misunderstandings,it is important to look at the evidence gathered with data.76 In this respect,Destination Management Organisations(DMOs),built on public-private partnerships,could p

148、lay a crucial role not only in strengthening the role of tourism,but also in optimising specific destinations.DMOs can influence the way tourism is developed ideally switching from“mass”,volume-focused tourism to sustainable“quality tourism”,attracting selected visitors(who wish to stay for longer,e

149、ntailing higher spending)through targeted campaigns.The creation of such partnership is supported by the EC,as in the case of Romania(which lacked 74 Interviewee 7.75 Interviewee 8.76 Interviewee 7.24 a coordinated system of tourism destination management,and where regional stakeholders had limited

150、capacity for implementing a coordinated network77).When it comes to loss of cultural identity,as asserted by the representatives of rural tourism trade organisations,78 the most pressing concern in the EU is cultural unification centred around content accessed via the internet or TV channels.Notwith

151、standing,it is important to remember that the development of rural areas should not rely solely on tourism,since destinations considered primarily tourist attractions may lose their appeal of“authentic”countryside.77 EC(n.d.)Developing tourism destination management organisations in Romania.78 Inter

152、viewees 1&2.25 3.Analysis of the relationship between the LTVRA and tourism,and assessment of funding The economic significance of the tourist sector has been recognised across a broad spectrum of European policies and strategies.Mentioned for the first time in the Treaty on the Functioning of the E

153、uropean Union in 1957,it has been gaining momentum in the last 20 years due to increased globalisation,ease of transport,increasing personal wealth and new directions in tourism.The Lisbon Treaty of 2007 acknowledged the importance of tourism outlining a specific competence for the EU in this field,

154、and allowing for decisions to be taken by a qualified majority.An article within the Treaty specifies that the EU shall complement the action of the Member States in the tourism sector,in particular by promoting the competitiveness of Union undertakings in that sector.In 2010 the Communication“Europ

155、e,the worlds No 1 tourist destination a new political framework for tourism in Europe”adopted in the aftermath of the financial crisis and the volcano eruption in Iceland,the EU sought to relaunch tourism activities,combat seasonality and maintain leadership in terms of tourism arrivals.79 Since the

156、n,many sectoral,industrial,national and regional strategies have introduced approaches to tourism development as part of their strategy supporting cohesion,diversification and growth.The Long-Term Vision of Rural Agriculture(LTVRA)created by the rural communities is one of them,where a portion of th

157、e activities focus on the support of rural development through rural tourism.This part of the report analyses the relationship between LTVRA and tourism in different EU policies and strategies.It shows that since different policies were created at different points in time,as responses to sectoral an

158、d regional challenges,the LTVRA can only loosely be related to tourism through multiple channels.Regardless,this chapter also aims to show that LTVRA stakeholders on the regional and local level can efficiently benefit from already existing strategies in their efforts towards promoting the developme

159、nt of rural tourism.79 Ibidem.26 3.1.The relationship between LTVRA and tourism The Long-Term Vision for the EUs Rural Areas(LTVRA)up to 2040 is a strategy announced by the European Commission in June 2021,with the aim of targeting rural challenges.The LTVRA was based on a broad consultation includi

160、ng rural communities,farmers,businesses,Local Action Groups(LAG)and other relevant stakeholders,as part of the European Network for Rural Development(ENRD).Public consultations and local events enabled the gathering of their views and opinions.Taking all these perspectives into account,a Rural Pact

161、and Rural Action Plan were set up.80 The objective of the Rural Pact is to facilitate collaboration,networking,and mutual learning.81 Actors who join the pact can contribute to making rural areas more attractive spaces through harmonious territorial development.Engagement and the exchanging of ideas

162、 are seen as vital for innovation,which contributes to the creation of economic opportunities,including in tourism.82 The EU Rural Action Plan,on the other hand,covers activities organised in four pillars to make non-urban regions stronger,more resilient,connected and prosperous.The plan aims to fos

163、ter territorial cohesion while creating new opportunities to boost entrepreneurship,attract innovative businesses,assure access to high level employment,ameliorate skills,enhance public services and infrastructure,and campaign in favour of sustainable agriculture and diversified economic activities.

164、83 The importance of tourist activities in non-urban areas,and their potential to contribute to employment and labour market diversification,is emphasised in the LTVRA.In the case of the Rural Pact,market diversification which can include rural tourism is highlighted,although tourism only appears th

165、ere indirectly.The Rural Action Plan outlines significant synergies between on-farm activities,the production of local quality products,the adequate management of landscapes,and sea-land interactions in coastal rural areas that can be used to attract tourism.84 80 EC(2021).Long-term vision for rural

166、 areas:for stronger,connected,resilient,prosperous EU rural areas.81 EU Rural Pact Platform(n.d.).Learn more about the Pact.82 EU Rural Pact(n.d.).Become a member of the Rural Pact.83 EU Rural Vision(n.d.).Action Plan.84 EC(2021).Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament,the Counc

167、il,the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions A long-term Vision for the EUs Rural Areas Towards stronger,connected,resilient and prosperous rural areas by 2040.27 The LTVRA includes several flagship projects that will be supported with public,private and EU funds,am

168、ong them the European Agriculture Fund for Rural Development(EAFRD),European Regional and Development Fund(ERDF)and Cohesion Fund(CF),European Social Fund Plus(ESF+),European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund(EMFAF),as well as the NextGenerationEU through the Resilience and Recovery Facility(R

169、RF),and the Just Transition Fund(JTF).85 These flagship projects are adopted by local action groups(LAGs),who prepare their local development strategies and apply for funding.These opportunities are open to projects promoting rural tourism.The representatives of rural tourism trade associations inte

170、rviewed for this report fully agree that rural tourism will become a solid pillar of rural development policy at the EU level,as tourism will be seen as an opportunity to strengthen and diversify local economies.In the case of farms,such tourism can function as an opportunity to secure a second inco

171、me and as a platform of exchange between city and countryside,fostering cohesion.86 Nevertheless,from their perspective the LTVRA reflects rural development too generically,without taking into consideration the societal circumstances and preferences of people living and working in rural areas.Instea

172、d,more emphasis is put on farming interests and growth.Also,the UN Tourism representative highlighted that tourism could be more strongly integrated into the LTVRA by providing broader evidence of the policies,examples,and positive impact that it could bring to rural areas development.We might concl

173、ude that the LTVRA is loosely related to EU policies addressing the tourism ecosystem in general,since it was created only in 2021.Nevertheless,regional and local authorities can build on it by reaching for more concrete measures from existing programmes and solutions,since these programmes provide

174、direct and indirect support for rural regions in combatting their structural challenges.EU tourism policy landscape The recently adopted EU policies in the field of tourism(and beyond)aim to keep Europe a leading global destination while enabling green and digital 85 EU Rural Vision(n.d.).Toolkit on

175、 EU funds for rural areas.86 Interviewee 6.28 transformations.87 The tourism ecosystem,which was one of the sectors hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic,was the first industry to be supported by the European authorities.Through the updated EU industrial strategy(2020),the EC initiated a co-creation

176、process for tourism,which resulted in the publication of the Transition Pathway for Tourism in February 2022,and the adoption of the European Agenda for Tourism 2030 in December 2022 by the Council of the European Union.Both documents prioritise green and digital transition,focusing on sustainabilit

177、y as a core of the new tourism policy.Sustainability is being addressed through fair measures supporting and controlling short-term rentals,encouraging multimodal travelling,introducing circularity in tourism services,and the usage of digital tools for online tourism services.The Transition Pathway

178、for Tourism(TPT)makes a broad reference to the LTVRA by acknowledging the importance of rural areas for European identity:88“The support for rural tourism and non-urban areas via comprehensive smart and sustainable tourism strategies,using the comparative advantage,thoughtful market segmentation,div

179、ersification as well as the integration of well-being of residents of rural areas can be helpful in regional rural development”.In the TPT the EU encourages all Member States to help build cross-sectoral collaboration that contributes to the green transition of the tourism ecosystem in terms of the

180、development of sustainable transport,with special attention to the increased needs of peripheral,less accessible regions.89 Greener transport in tourism has been also highlighted and supported by the Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy and Action Plan from 2020.90 One of the aims of the Strategy

181、 is to further measures for disadvantaged regions,such as rural and remote regions.The EU Pact for Skills Skills Partnership for the Tourism Ecosystems from December 202191 can be a good source of knowledge and initiatives supporting up-and reskilling activities within rural areas for the developmen

182、t of rural 87 EC(n.d.).Overview of EU tourism policy.88 EC(2022).Transition Pathway for Tourism.89 Council of the European Union(2022).Council conclusions on European Agenda for Tourism 2030.90 EC(2020).Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament,The Council,The European Economic an

183、d Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions-Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy putting European transport on track for the future.91 EC(2021).The EU Pact for Skills Skills Partnership for the Tourism Ecosystem.29 tourism.While there is no direct reference to the LTVRA in the document,th

184、e Pact aims to mobilise resources to invest in skills and establish a shared collaboration model between sectoral actors to collectively help in the upskilling and reskilling of the workforce in the tourism industry.Local training providers and regional authorities are one of the type of organisatio

185、ns pledging to reskill their local communities.The Pact for Skills website gathers all stakeholders at the national,regional and rural levels to help respond to sectoral local upskilling needs.92 Several other strategies and policies predating the LTVRA can also be of reference and used by local aut

186、horities for addressing the rural development challenges and supporting rural tourism.For example,through the Communication on the Blue Growth opportunities for marine and maritime sustainable growth,the EC recognised that tourism is an additional source of income for some coastal communities,but in

187、 others it can dominate the local economy.It called for tailor-made approaches to be accompanied by measures that help to improve the tourism offer for low-season tourism and reduce the high carbon footprint and environmental impact of coastal tourism.93 The updated European Bioeconomy Strategy94 fr

188、om 2018 presents five ambitious aims supporting bioeconomy development in Europe.One of the objectives aimed to strengthen European competitiveness and jobs creation opens up potential for diversifying income in rural areas and boosting rural economies through investment in skills and new local busi

189、ness models.While it does not directly answer the challenges related to rural tourism,it does clearly address the potential of bioeconomy development for rural growth,and responds directly to rural areas challenges(such as the lack of infrastructure)and the LTVRA aims(for example the diversification

190、 of business models),indirectly allowing for the support of rural tourism as well.92 EC(n.d.).Pact for Skills.93 EC(2014).Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament,the Council,The European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions A European Strategy for more

191、Growth and Jobs in Coastal and Maritime Tourism.94 EC(n.d.).Bioeconomy Strategy What is the Strategy about?.30 The EU Biodiversity Strategy for 203095 also provides direct support for the development of rural tourism at the regional level.The Strategy emphasises that by improving the diversity of ag

192、ricultural systems,rural tourism,recreation and new business models will be created.Other initiatives,such as the restoration of freshwater ecosystems,restoration of the good environmental status of marine ecosystems and the reduction of pollution also support,directly or indirectly,the development

193、of tourism in rural areas.As shown here,while many policy strategies do not refer directly to the support of rural tourism or the LTVRA in general,they still can positively influence both.There are also other documents and programmes that can support the Vision and benefit rural tourism.One of the e

194、xamples is the newly launched Euro Cluster Rural Tourism(ERT)initiative within the COSME programme.96 ERT is a Eurocluster created at the international level by professional organisations working on rural development.The idea behind the ERT initiative is to build a platform for the direct support of

195、 nano-,micro-and small enterprises in rural tourism97 in order to establish a collaboration mechanism between clusters of regional tourism,to assist SMEs in reskilling and upskilling activities that are needed due to the digital and green transition,and to increase the visibility of rural tourism.98

196、 ERT also assists small rural tourism operators financially and in twelve focus areas including the topics of digital,sustainable,and social competences.99 Another effective way to develop rural tourism can be found in macroeconomic interregional strategies that were implemented between 2009 and 201

197、5 at the EU level.Initiatives undertaken there could build up the LTVRA by presenting more concrete actions supporting rural regions.The EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region(EUSBSR),the first of the macro-regional strategies,was aimed,among others,to secure good transport conditions,helping connect

198、 people in the region,and helping climate change adaptation.Activities implemented within this Strategy,such as building transport 95 EC(2020).Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament,the Council,The European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions EU Biodi

199、versity Strategy for 2030 Bringing nature back into our lives.96 EuroCluster Rural Tourism(n.d.).97 EuroCluster Rural Tourism(n.d.).Project Information.98 Ibidem.99 Ibidem.31 infrastructure,or promotional and awareness-raising activities,helped citizens build new business models and strengthen the c

200、ollaboration between them.The activities reinforced cohesion and could potentially have a positive impact on rural tourism.The EU Strategy for the Danube Region(EUSDR),on the other hand,was aimed to promote,protect,and rehabilitate the cultural heritage of the Danube region,and to promote sustainabl

201、e tourism in the area.By building strong collaborative activities among local and regional stakeholders,related to the improved waterway,rail-road-air mobility,protection of environmental and cultural heritage,knowledge society,increased competitiveness and several other issues,the programme indirec

202、tly strengthened local tourism stakeholders and service providers in the development of rural tourism.Overall,regardless of the aims and activities being implemented,the Macroeconomic Strategies made the macro-regions,including the rural regions within them,more prosperous,helping them to foster soc

203、ial,economic,and territorial cohesion and giving them prospects for further development under the digital and environmental transition.3.2.Actions supporting tourism in rural regions in the EU As demonstrated above,despite the fact that the LTVRA is only loosely connected to tourism policies and str

204、ategies at the EU level,rural tourism development can to some extent be supported by existing actions and activities.The aim of this part of the report is to assess to what extent tourism has been supported in rural regions within LEADER and CLLD activities.The LEADER programme and the Community-Led

205、 Local Development(CLLD)actions are European tools for regions designed to address challenges and problems using a bottom-up approach.With the idea of engaging local stakeholders and empowering them to contribute to regional development,Local Action Groups(LAG)partnerships were formed to bring toget

206、her public,private,and civil sectors in the application of the local actions.By 2023,more than 2,500 LAGs had been established,covering more than 50%of the European rural population.100 100 ELARD(n.d.).About LEADER and CLLD.32 While the LEADER programme was financed from European Agricultural Funds

207、up to 2014,in the programming period of 20142020 it was extended under the broader terms of the CLLD by including the activities under multiple funds.The following Funds contributed on a larger or smaller scale to the development of rural regions in 20142020:-the European Agricultural Fund for Rural

208、 Development(EAFRD)-the European Regional Development Fund(ERDF)-the European Social Fund(ESF)-the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund(EMFF).101 With the success of the multi-funded CLLD,financial support for CLLD actions also remains extended for the 20212027 programming period.Due to the fragment

209、ed nature of funds available for CLLD activities,identifying projects and activities supporting tourism in rural areas is a challenging exercise.Not only was the concept of rural tourism not directly addressed under the 20142020 programming period,but also tourism was not seen by the EC policy as an

210、 objective,but more as a sector to be supported.As a consequence,the Cohesion Open Data Platform,102 which was used to analyse the objectives and actions of the CLLD/LEADER activities,does not include direct reference to tourism in rural areas.Despite this,there is a representative pool of projects

211、which,while not being aimed at rural tourism,indirectly support tourism to a significant extent.Therefore,the CLLD/LEADER framework has been split into two basic categories:the activities that directly addressed the challenges and opportunities of rural tourism plus the funds that were allocated to

212、that(which for this study we define as direct support),and the other activities addressing the challenges of the rural regions,defined above,which might indirectly facilitate rural tourism in the longer term,but were not directly aimed at strengthening the tourism sector in rural regions;we define t

213、hese as indirect support.The key source for the evaluation of projects in direct or indirect support of rural tourism development will be the Cohesion Open Data Platform.It lists almost 2 million projects that have been conducted under selected EU funds,from 2014 101 European Network for Rural Devel

214、opment(n.d.).LEADER/CLLD FAQs.102 EC(n.d.).Cohesion open data platform.33 to this day.It is important to note that while the Data Platform contains a vast pool of projects,of the funds relevant for this study only the Cohesion Fund and European Regional Development Fund are included.This creates a c

215、hallenge for the identification of projects that were funded by other funds identified previously in this chapter.Nevertheless,the available information provides some level of assessment of the use of actions related to tourism.As stated above,the Cohesion Open Data Platform contains 1,919,784 proje

216、cts in total.103 Of these,the Cohesion Fund and the European Regional Development Fund account for 23,547 and 758,220 projects respectively,totalling 781,767 projects.104 4,012 projects(which is only about 0.5%of all projects)covered by these two funds are related to tourism,and of these 210 are tie

217、d directly to rural tourism.105 The projects addressing tourism are diverse.Many were created to combat the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on SMEs,or to support companies during that period.There are projects supporting the promotion of local tourism,or enhancing the international competit

218、iveness of tourism.Among these activities we can identify projects related to the promotion of tourism services,promotion of new local products,and the promotion of local heritage.A limited number of available projects support the development of traditional transport infrastructure.There are project

219、s addressing infrastructure related directly to tourism,but a large number of projects are also tied to infrastructure that is more relevant to the development of rural areas.On the other hand,the projects related to tourism include activities that support the development of tourism infrastructure r

220、elated to leisure,treatment and relaxation activities,or the creation of infrastructure for the production of local goods.Some of those projects refer to the development of sustainable tourism through the creation of eco-innovative accommodation,or sustainable transport.For 103 EC(2023).Projects Co-

221、Funded by the EU.Cohesion Open Data Platform.104 Ibidem.105 Ibidem.34 example,there are projects encouraging cycling-tourism destinations,the development of coastal-area sustainable tourism,and the fishing tourism business model in coastal territories.Many activities relate to new trends within tour

222、ism:increasing the appeal of cultural tourism,revitalisation of the infrastructure,or cultural heritage related to valorisation of the industrial cultural landscape through cultural tourism or to wine tourism and gastronomy.The significance of digitalisation within tourism has also been well recogni

223、sed in many of the projects through diverse initiatives.Some of them are related to the increase in digital tourism through e-tourism,the creation of special IT systems,or digital upskilling activities,and integrated digital tourism and culture ecosystems.On the other hand,there is a limited number

224、of projects covering upskilling activities related to tourism.The majority of them are related to digital upskilling,and only a few refer to the competencies of lifelong knowledge for the hospitality and tourist sectors.While only 210 projects are directly related to rural tourism,we were able to pr

225、epare a quantitative assessment of activities that the projects addressed.The aim here is to assess whether the activities being implemented correspond to the challenges,needs and opportunities listed in the report.Figure 8.The share of activities in rural areas related to various challenges Source:

226、CASE own calculation based on the Cohesion Open Data Platform.InfrastructureTrainingSustainable tourismCompetitiveness of SMESSupporting local heritage and newproductsDigital tourismTourism promotionCovid-19 support35 Over 30%of the activities identified as related to rural tourism supported the dev

227、elopment of infrastructure in the region,the creation of new tourist accommodation,new rural tourism facilities,the renovation of old buildings for tourist purposes,or the creation of waste treatment plants.Another 30%of the projects aimed to increase the competitiveness of SMEs working in rural tou

228、rism,supporting rural tourism stakeholders,and supporting the activities of LAGs.This is done by supporting sustainable sectoral employment,supporting social inclusion and jobs creation,and by adapting the physical and organisational infrastructure of rural tourism companies.Only 15%of the projects

229、responded to the challenges of sustainable tourism,such as the creation of eco-friendly guesthouses,establishing sustainable electric transport in the region,and the installation of renewable energy facilities.One in ten of the projects is broadly related to the renovation of local heritage,creation

230、 of new local products,and support for local culture and cuisine.Only 8%of them support digital solutions for the development of rural tourism.3.3.How to make better use of EU funding programmes to strengthen rural tourism in a sustainable way As already highlighted,during the 20142020 funding perio

231、d the LEADER activities were expanded under Community-Led Local Development(CLLD)to three additional EU funds:the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund(EMFF),the European Regional Development Fund(ERDF),and the European Social Fund(ESF).106 The LEADER was implemented within the national and regional

232、rural development programmes(RDP)of each EU Member State,co-financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development(EAFRD).EU funding programmes provide funding and opportunities to support rural tourism under diverse programmes.The aim of this chapter is to present practical opinions of re

233、gional stakeholders on the potential use of existing funds in a sustainable way for rural tourism development.106 European Network for Rural Development(n.d.).LEADER/CLLD.36 The interviews conducted with a variety of stakeholders revealed several directions in which the EU funding programmes could b

234、e addressed in order to strengthen rural tourism.One of the main challenges identified by a majority of the interviewees is the fact that the funding is distributed between different programmes,and not directly related to rural tourism.Each of the programmes contains elements supporting(rural)touris

235、m development directly or indirectly,but also each of the programmes and funds is driven by different units,with different priorities,objectives and target groups.The interviewees also pointed to the fragmentation of the focus on rural tourism in different EU strategies.Stakeholders at the local lev

236、el confirm that the LTVRA focuses on a general vision for the development of rural areas(such as infrastructure development).The available funding is not directed to specific issues,such as tourism,and they see the LTVRA as being too generic in this respect.In their view,such a situation creates sev

237、eral complications,especially for micro-enterprises.As the CEO of Urlaub am Bauernhof(Holidays on Farm)Austria stated,in order to receive funding and to successfully work with EU funding,the local stakeholders require a high level of administration,skills and work.Bigger stakeholders in agritourism

238、highlight that they are principally happy with EU funding,but at the same time they acknowledge that bureaucracy can be an issue among smaller actors seeking funding.107 Rural tourism associations also highlight the difficulty in gathering targeted support for stakeholders functioning in rural touri

239、sm sectors.Business operators in rural tourism consists mainly of nano-,micro-and(to a limited extent)small enterprises.Their capacity in terms of finance and personnel is limited when it comes to the complicated processes of identifying the right priorities and following the complicated rules.On to

240、p of that they state that European policy is mismatched with the local realities,necessitating a more spread-out administrative service enabling closer work with local businesses,especially micro providers.107 Interviewee 6.37 According to the representatives of rural tourism trade organisations,in

241、some European countries,the national and regional governments are responsible for creating rules about who can benefit from funding opportunities.In such cases,individuals who provide rural accommodation and rural tourism activities cannot be supported as private persons.Funding is only available to

242、 small or medium enterprises(for example with 6 or 7 employees).This is the situation in Lithuania,for example.108 A simplified procedure for applying for a low level of funding is needed,which would allow a larger number of individuals/businesses to operate rural tourism activities legally within t

243、he tourism industry and not being subjected to the same rules as international chains of hotels and resorts.One of the ideas being mentioned is the use of so-called small funds,operating like lump sums.Some parts of the ERDF work in this manner and good be used as a model.As the bureaucracy needed t

244、o access the funds is too complicated,a lot of businesses or individuals decide to apply for bank loans,considered easier and less time-consuming.109 Additionally,stakeholders would also welcome funding possibilities extended to projects aiming to improve the quality of equipment in farms offering t

245、ourism,as well as opportunities to support the creation of on-farm experiences,because it seems that support in these areas is rather stagnant.110 Other stakeholders state that funding opportunities could also address destination management as well as monitoring of the flow of tourists,so as to avoi

246、d“overtourism”in certain regions.This has to be taken into consideration when planning a regions development.As for the future the existing funds properly address rural challenges such as the improvement of transport infrastructure,ICT infrastructure and to some extent upskilling activities.Yet,the

247、direct support for rural tourism stakeholders is seen as a missing link.There is a shortage of tools supporting nano-and micro-enterprises,whose limitations and capacities are not well recognised in the EU strategies and funding opportunities.108 Interviewees 1&2.109 Interviewees 1&2.110 Interviewee

248、 6.38 4.Description of good practice examples Following the analysis of the actions being implemented within the last programming period,in Part 3 we provide a review of three good practice examples of initiatives at the local level,using rural tourism to stimulate declining rural areas.Their select

249、ion is based on the following criteria:diversified geographical balance:attractive mountainous landscape for ENOTarnowskie projects,coastal landscape in Portugal and the agricultural landscape of Spanish region;diverse regional challenges and opportunities are addressed,like the opportunity to use t

250、he combination of touristic region and local producers of wineries,as a boost for the economic growth in one of the Polish regions;challenges related to protection of natural habitat from adverse impacts of tourism in Portugal;and the challenges related to the depopulation of a region in Spain.4.1 E

251、NOTarnowskie111 ENOTarnowskie is a project connecting vineyards,wineries,local producers and agritourism establishments in the Tarnw,Brzesko and Dbrowa Counties(powiats)as well as in the city of Tarnw,all located in the Pogrze region.Local and regional context With over 100 vineyards and wineries,th

252、e Maopolska voivodeship,where Pogrze is located,is one of the most dynamically developing wine regions in Poland,thanks to its topography and mild climate.Indeed,the city of Tarnw is believed to be the warmest place in Poland,and has one of the longest vegetation periods in the country,perfect for t

253、he cultivation of grapes.112 At the same time,111 Tarnowska Organizacja Turystyczna(n.d.).112 Urzd Miasta Tarnowa(2011).Naukowcy sprawdzili:Tarnw Polskim Biegunem Ciepa.Source:https:/enotarnowskie.pl/39 it is a region featuring predominantly agricultural landscapes,characterised by“high fragmentatio

254、n of farms,lack of specialisation,underinvestment and poor technical infrastructure”.113 Local and regional objectives The goal of the ENOTarnowskie project is to use the potential of the Pogrze region as an enotourism destination to increase the number of tourists visiting the region and,consequent

255、ly,to increase the regions revenue from tourism.Main activities and timelines One of the first crucial steps towards building the ENOTarnowskie brand was the commissioning in 2017 by the Tarnw Tourism Organisation(TTO)of the study“Strategy for the development of wine tourism as a new tourism brand o

256、f the Pogrze region”.114 Since then,the TTO has been consistently developing the project,including through the designing of marketing strategy,the writing of guidebooks and promotional materials,the compiling of tourist packages and improvement of the regions infrastructure,while at the same time fo

257、stering relations between individual stakeholders involved in the project.Financial support was secured by the TTO and Maopolska Winemakers Association for setting up a uniform system of visual identification and tourist infrastructure in the regions wineries(80%of related costs were reimbursed).115

258、 The project includes a number of events organised annually,both in the region and in the vineyards themselves.116 The wineries also offer individual and group wine tastings,vineyard tours,and tastings of the local cuisine;some of them also offer overnight stays.To facilitate travel between individu

259、al ENOTarnowskie wineries,the Enovelo project improving bicycle infrastructure in the region was implemented under the leadership of the Polish Tourism Association and in cooperation with several 113 Maopolski Orodek Doradztwa Rolniczego z siedzib w Karnowiach(n.d.).Charakterystyka powiatu tarnowski

260、ego.114 Gonera H.&Zych B.(2017).Strategia rozwoju turystyki winiarskiej jako nowej marki turystycznej Pogrza.In vino veritas.Diagnoza stanu obcenego/pomysy na rozwj enoturystyki na Pogrzu i w Polsce.115 Chwa P.(2021).Winnice pod Tarnowem coraz bardziej atrakcyjne.Turystw witaj nowe elementy drewnian

261、ej infrastruktury.Hitem:ogromne ramy.116 Such as the best-established ones,including Wielkie Tarnowskie Dionizje in November,Tuchovinifest in August,Vitis Music Sfera Festival and Plenieski Bachus in July,and Wianki na Winnicy in June https:/www.polskiemarkiturystyczne.gov.pl/szczegoly-marki/55-enot

262、arnowskie 40 municipalities.117 On a smaller scale,free tours by Enomeleks,connecting wineries in the region,are offered to tourists during summer and autumn.118 Additionally,in order to“inspire residents of other rural areas”119 to create similar cooperative projects and clusters,ENOtarnowskie drew

263、 up a guidebook of good practices.Main actors Apart from the Tarnw Tourism Organisation,which created ENOTarnowskie,a broad spectrum of stakeholders is engaged in the project:from local vineyards(thirteen as of September 2023,currently producing 50,000 bottles of wine a year120)and winemakers associ

264、ations,to local and regional authorities.121 Moreover,local producers and agritourism establishment owners are involved in various project activities on a regular basis.For example,the publication“Good practices in the field of enotourism in the ENOTarnowskie area”was compiled in collaboration with

265、local farmers,producers and winemakers(30 of them were invited to share their good practices)as well as the Association“On the Plum Trail”(“Na liwkowym szlaku”in Polish),the Regional Association of Residents of Gmina Wojnicz,and the Municipal Culture Centre in Iwkowa.122 Results While no data is ava

266、ilable on the number of jobs created or changes in income from tourism,the TTO estimates that between 800,000 and 1 million tourists visit the region per year,an increase of 2030%since the commencement of the project.123 ENOTarnowskie has received two prestigious awards:the“Best Tourist Product”cert

267、ificate granted by the Polish Tourism Organisation(in 2019)124 and“Polish Tourist Brand 2022”Polska Marka Turystyczna 2022 certificate awarded jointly by the Polish Tourism Organisation and the Ministry 117 Enovelo(n.d.).118 Tarnowska Organizacja Turystyczna(n.d.).119 Tarnowska Organizacja Turystycz

268、na(2021).Katalog dobrych praktyk.120 Tarnowska Organizacja Turystyczna(n.d.).121 Polskie marki turystyczne(n.d.).Enotarnowskie.122 Gminny Orodek Kultury w Iwkowej(2021).Realizacja operacji pn.Dobre praktyki w zakresie enoturystyki na obszarze ENOTarnowskie”.123 Interviewee 3.124 Polska Organizacja T

269、urystyczna(2019).Znamy Najlepsze Produkty Turystyczne 2019!.41 of Sport and Tourism of the Republic of Poland(only nine have been awarded thus far in the country).125 4.2 Ericeira,Portugal Source:https:/www.cm-mafra.pt/pages/1144?news_id=4952 Local and regional context Ericeira is a coastal village

270、in Portugal,a short distance from the Lisbon airport.Thanks to its unique location and climate,already in mid-1970s it started attracting surfers from all around the world126.Indeed,in 2011 it was named a World Surfing Reserve127(WSR)by the International Save the Waves Coalition and joined the World

271、 Surf Cities Network,a club of cities for which surfing-related activities contribute significantly to the local economy and whose authorities acknowledge the importance of surfing for the citys touristic appeal.128 At the same time,Ericeira maintains its fishing village identity and,in an effort to

272、 attract tourists also outside of the season129,the village hosts cultural events such as the Sea Urchin International Festival(taking place every March since 2017130).Local and regional objectives Preservation of the natural habitat and protection of the local ecosystem is key for Ericeira and its

273、region.Indeed,the municipality of Mafra,where Ericeira is located,since 2021 has been a Biosphere Destination(a title granted by the Institute of Responsible Tourism),with local authorities stressing the need to 125 Ministerstwo Sportu i Turystyki(2022).Wrczenie tytuw w ramach II naboru do projektu

274、Polskie Marki Turystyczne.126 Save the Waves(2011).Ericeira.127 Currently,there are twelve such places.Save the Waves(2011).Ericeira Rides to World Surfing Reserve Fame.128 Cmara Municipal de Mafra,(n.d.).Ericeira World Surfing Reserve.129 World Tourism Organization(2023)https:/www.UNWTO.org/tourism

275、-villages/en/villages/ericeira/.130 AZUL Ericeira Mag,(2023).Festival do Ourico-do-mar Regressa a Ericeira para a 7a edicao.42 achieve“a balanced relationship between human activity,environmental protection and preservation of historical-cultural heritage”.131 Main activities and timelines In 2017,a

276、 Local Stewardship Council of the Ericeira World Surfing Reserve was created specifically to ensure protection of the natural landscape of the WSR.The Council also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Save the Waves re-committing to implementation of the Ericeira World Surfing Reserve Stewardsh

277、ip Plan,one of which is commitment to establishment of a legally protected coastal zone surrounding Ericeira.132 Indeed,Ericeria is one of three municipalities,alongside Cascais and Sintra,133 that in October 2022 signed a Memorandum of Understanding agreeing to works towards establishment of a Mari

278、ne Protected Area(AMPIC,rea Marinha Protegida de Interesse Comunitrio)covering the waters in their area.The project is to receive 1 million EUR from the Portuguese Environmental Fund(Fundo Ambiental),with the remaining funds coming from the budgets of the three municipalities.134 Main actors Main ac

279、tors include the Municipality of Mafra and the Local Stewardship Council.The Council consists of Mayor of the City Council and representatives of the municipality of Mafra,representatives of the municipal tourism and environmental services,various local parish councils and surfing associations,local

280、 health unit,National Maritime Authority,municipal security forces,guas de Lisboa and Vale do Tejo,SA(water management authority),and Portuguese Environment Agency.135 A close collaborator of the Council is Save the Waves,an organisation behind granting Ericeira a status of a World Surfing Reserve.R

281、esults In 2023,the Local Stewardship Council designated 15 hectares of coastline as a permanent preservation zone in an effort to protect the coastline and restore native 131 Cmara Municipal de Mafra,(2021).Mafra Destino Turstico Sustentvel.132 Ibidem.133 Unio das Cidades Capitais de Lngua Portugues

282、a(2023).rea Marinha Protegida de Interesse Comunitrio Sintra,Mafra e Cascais.134 Ambiente Magazine,(2023).Sintra avana com criao da rea Marinha Protegida de Interesse Comunitrio.135 Full list of the Council members is available at:Cmara Municipal de Mafra,(2017).Mafra Destino Turstico Sustentvel.43

283、habitat there and approved a budget of 7 million EUR for a new sewage treatment system in order to improve water quality in the Reserve.136 Another expected outcome is creation of the abovementioned Marine Protected Area inclusive of Ericeira,its coastline and waters.As a sign of recognition of Eric

284、eiras efforts to preserve it natural habitat and cultural identity,it was named one of UN Tourisms 2023 worlds Best Tourism Villages.137 4.3 Linares de la Sierra,El Valle Escondido(Hidden Valley)138 Source:http:/ and regional context Linares de la Sierra is a small village situated in Andalusia,one

285、of 17 autonomous communities in Spain.139 While the region is highly touristic,with income from tourism accounting for nearly 13%of its GDP140 and the tourism sector providing close to 14%of its employment,141 the village is located in a rather remote part of Andalusia,an hour and half drive from Se

286、ville,and has never been a typical tourist destination.Those tourists who do visit hail predominantly from Spain.142 Indeed,Andalusia has a particular tourist profile:nearly half(47%)of tourists staying overnight in the region are Spanish(compared to 35%in the country on average).143 Local and regio

287、nal objectives 136 Hodges T.(2023).Win for Ericeira World Surfing Reserve:15 hectares preserved for restoration and permanent protection.137 Ericeira-Best Tourism Villages(UNWTO.org).138 See also an in-depth case study focusing on community-based tourism in Linares de la Sierra:Cceres-Feria,Hernndez

288、-Ramrez&Ruiz-Ballesteros(2021).Depopulation,community-based tourism,and community resilience in southwest Spain.139 Andalusia Tourist Community(n.d.).140 Invest in Andalucia(n.d.).141 Villegas,Delgado&Cardenete(2022).The economic impact of a tourist tax in Andalusia examined through a price effect m

289、odel.142 Cceres-Feria,Hernndez-Ramrez&Ruiz-Ballesteros(2021).Depopulation,community-based tourism,and community resilience in southwest Spain.143 Caixa Bank Research(2021).Autonomous Community profiles Andalusia.44 The village,like others in the region,is struggling with depopulation,a trend that st

290、arted in the 1960s(between 1960 and 1970,its population decreased from 601 to 367)144 and has continued into the 2000s.The development of tourism has been seen as a way of preserving the community and the village itself by offering employment,attracting investment,and reinvigorating community life.M

291、ain activities and timelines In 2011,the local authorities ayuntamiento launched a structured campaign geared at promoting tourism in the village.145 Linares de la Sierra was branded El valle escondido,a hidden valley,and a website146 and social media channels dedicated to tourists were created.The

292、branding of the village is related to its secluded location and is building on its being surrounded by attractive nature(forests,a national park,and hiking trails).A number of events,mainly of religious nature,also contribute to the objective of turning the village into a tourism hotspot.These inclu

293、de pilgrimages,celebrations of the Holy Week and the Night of Poets(organised since 2000147).The most popular event,the celebration of the Reyes Magos(Three Kings),has been organised there every 5 January since 2000,and involves the transformation of the entire village into Bethlehem,148 with the vi

294、llagers turning into actors(due to its popularity,a special association named Asociacin Cultural Sierra de Picachanes was created to take charge of its organisation).149 Main actors As mentioned above,it was the local authorities that in 2000 launched a structured project of turning the village into

295、 an attractive tourist destination.However,in Linares de la Sierra,tourism“involves,both formally and informally,practically the entire village”,150 with inhabitants owning local restaurants,offering accommodation,running local shops,and engaging in various events that attract 144 Cceres-Feria,Hernn

296、dez-Ramrez&Ruiz-Ballesteros(2021).Depopulation,community-based tourism,and community resilience in southwest Spain.145 Ibidem.146 Linares de la Sierra(n.d.).147 Ibidem.148 Turismo Linares de la Sierra(Facebook Page)(2021).Los Reyes Magos en el Valle Escondido.149 Lindares de la Sierra(n.d.).150 Ccer

297、es-Feria,Hernndez-Ramrez&Ruiz-Ballesteros(2021).Depopulation,community-based tourism,and community resilience in southwest Spain.45 tourists.Moreover,the six local associations play an active role in the organisation and promotion of various events throughout the year.Results Tourism provides additi

298、onal income to the villagers and is perceived beneficial to the community.151 The success in terms of countering depopulation has thus far been modest;currently(2022),the village has 276 residents,152 a slight increase from 262 in 2020(not quite a return to the 2000 level of 316,though).153 However,

299、the trend is upward,coupled with a higher number of people moving into the village than migrating away from it(18 versus 9 in 2021).154 151 Ibidem.152 Instituto de Estadistica y Cartografia de Andalucia(2023).Andalucia pueblo a pueblo Fichas Municipales.153 Cceres-Feria,Hernndez-Ramrez&Ruiz-Balleste

300、ros(2021).Depopulation,community-based tourism,and community resilience in southwest Spain.154 Instituto de Estadistica y Cartografia de Andalucia(2023).Andalucia pueblo a pueblo Fichas Municipales.46 5 Conclusions and recommendations This study,commissioned by the European Committee of the Regions

301、and realised with the support of the UN Tourisms Regional Department for Europe,deepens understanding of the role of tourism in rural development,while highlighting the importance of this economic activity in the territories at risk of depopulation and discontent.The study provides insights into the

302、 situation of tourism sector in rural areas;assesses the potential for economic development and gives pointers regarding funding opportunities.Backed by the literature reviews and interviews with experts,it analyses the relationship between various EU tourism strategies and the LTVRA,explores the ch

303、allenges and opportunities for local public authorities interested in boosting their rural tourism profiles and making tourism an effective tool for rural development.Several observations can be made as takeaway messages from this report:The LTVRA supports rural tourism and rural tourism can contrib

304、ute to the objectives of the LTVRA.The LTVRA strategy,across all ten shared goals is set to deliver stronger,connected,resilient and prosperous rural areas by 2040.It recognises the potential of tourist activities in rural areas and their potential to contribute to employment and labour market diver

305、sification.Likewise,rural tourism through its job creation and heritage promotion and preservation boosts resilience and attractiveness of rural areas.This virtuous circle merits further research to better capture all aspects of the intertwined connection between tourism and rural development.Touris

306、m is one the key EU economy sectors.The tourism sector matters for the economic development of the EU,accounting for 5%of total gross value added to the EU economy,and having successfully recovered after the COVID-19 pandemic in 2023.Rural tourism is well established and keeps growing in popularity.

307、47 Rural tourism is not a new concept and for many years has enjoyed considerable popularity among tourist destinations in the EU.Since the pandemic individual travel preferences have evolved with travellers increasingly opting for destinations closer to home,longer stays,sustainable transport modes

308、 and more nature.Rural areas face challenges that may slow down rural tourism development.They include challenges related to sub-optimal road and rail connections,problems with digital connectivity,a lower level of entrepreneurial or digital skills among local rural inhabitants,as well as demographi

309、c change.Poorly managed rural tourism development may adversely affect local communities An uncontrolled growth in tourist arrivals or excessive concentration in one place or at a given time of year,may impact the well-being of local communities.It may lead to an environmental impact(e.g.,higher usa

310、ge of fossil fuels),damage to nature,an increase in waste or littoralisation.Other externalities may include economic impact,such as an increase in property and commodity prices and socio-cultural impact,such as changes in lifestyle and loss of rural heritage.The EU funding programmes support both t

311、ourism and rural development.While there is no dedicated EU budget line for tourism,tourism activities and projects can be financed through 14 different programmes and mechanisms.Some are managed by the Member States and their regions,while others through open calls at the EU level.In the rural deve

312、lopment context,LEADER is implemented by over 2800 Local Action Groups,co-financed from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and complemented under the broader term Community-Led Local Development via the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund;the European Regional Development Fund;and

313、 the European Social Fund.The exact number and value of rural tourism projects,supported under all the available funds and programmes,is impossible to assess,given the multitude of funding sources and the fact that the previous programming period 2014-2020 is still ongoing.48 This study has assessed

314、 multiple opportunities and challenges for rural tourism development.On the basis of its finding,several recommendations can be made to realise the potential of rural areas and their tourism offer,to mitigate any negative externalities and to give support to public authorities embarking on transform

315、ation pathways.Prioritise digital transformation of rural areas.Digital gap between urban and rural areas,insufficient infrastructure and lack of relevant skills hampers further development of tourism.The roll-out of broadband into the rural areas must be accompanied by skill development strategies,

316、to enable rural communities to get fully digitally literate and confident to use new technologies to devise,implement and monitor their tourism strategies and tourist flows.Plan ahead and ensure local ownership and leadership over rural tourism strategies.As any economic activity,tourism does not ha

317、ppen in a vacuum and requires a strategy to grow sustainably.Bringing local community on board,listening to citizens ideas and objections can help mitigate loss of the local communitys control over their territory.Any local tourism development plan should address the risk of environment,economic soc

318、ial and cultural impact and include measures to monitor and mitigate these impacts.This requires access to timely and accurate data.Keep it sustainable it is not about volume;it is about quality.Over-tourism can adversely affect rural communities.It can lead to overconsumption of limited resources,c

319、hange the power equilibrium and push local inhabitants away from their neighbourhoods.It can also damage rural value chains,reducing opportunities in other rural business development.The planning and monitoring of sustainable tourism at the local level is an absolute necessity.Integrate tourism into

320、 a broader rural development strategy Prosperous rural areas need a broad range of economic activities and sectors to mutually reinforce one another and to secure a stable source of revenue all 49 year long.Tourism sector,although subject to seasonality and changing fashion trends,can stimulate othe

321、r rural ecosystems,highlighting rural craftmanship,promoting local gastronomy and attracting new business operators.All these elements must be captured in rural development strategies.Promote local entrepreneurship and provide people with learningopportunitiesStarting a new business can be a dauntin

322、g task,especially without the rightskills and support.Providing access to relevant training opportunities,promoting re-and upskilling,normalising life-long learning and offeringtechnical support to future and current entrepreneurs can inject a new life intoa local economic life.Specialised training

323、for local public authorities,toenhance their technical capacity in navigating rural development,might alsoprove beneficial in this respect.Build local community partnerships.It takes a village to revive a village.The LTVRA is an initiative built in thecollaborative process of LAGs and local stakehol

324、ders.A similar all-hands-on-deck approach can be applied to other aspects of tourism and ruraldevelopment agendas,in particular to private-public partnerships.Joiningforces to deliver regional transformation processes and to fund key initiativesmagnifies chance of success and creates a sense of owne

325、rship.Simplify access to funding for local rural tourism projects.Applying for EU funds is not an easy feat,especially for inexperienced andsmaller organisations.Identifying best opportunities,finding suitable partnersand meeting all requirements remains a challenge for many rural tourismactors.Simp

326、lified procedures for smaller grants with more involvement oflocal public authorities could address this issue and increase the rate ofsuccessful applications.This holds particularly true for tourism SMEs that arethe backbone of the ecosystem.Give visibility to successful initiatives and learn from

327、the best.The case studies presented in the report show that initiatives implementedcomprehensively with local socio-economic stakeholders,can make real50 difference in terms of income diversification,population increase or regional attractiveness.These and many more initiatives merit the spotlight;t

328、hey can be the source of inspiration to other rural areas in Europe.Improve data collection and collation.Despite many positive examples described in this study,the research points out to a lack of data at the regional and local level.The data available are often outdated,fragmented and incomparable

329、.Better indicators,unified collection methods and calendars as well as periodic data assessment and publication would greatly help both public authorities as well as the EU institutions to define their policy goals and allocate adequate resources for an effective implementation of tourism and rural

330、development strategies on the ground.Harnessing the power of tourism to drive rural development will enhance the resilience of EU rural areas and contribute to a better future of many Europeans.It can also help the EU to move closer to achieving several of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.For it

331、 to happen,the Union together with its cities and regions,need an integrated and multifaceted approach to tourism for rural development with a long-term vision towards 2030 and beyond.51 References Akehurst,G.,Bland,N.and Nevin,M.,(1993).Tourism policies in the European Community member states.Inter

332、national Journal of Hospitality Management,12(1),pp.33-66.Ambiente Magazine,(2023).Sintra avana com criao da rea Marinha Protegida de Interesse Comunitrio,https:/ Tourist Community(n/d).https:/www.andalucia.org/en/linares-de-la-sierra.AZUL Ericeira Mag,(2023).Festival do Ourico-do-mar Regressa a Eri

333、ceira para a 7a edicao,https:/www.ericeiramag.pt/festival-do-ourico-do-mar-regressa-a-ericeira-para-a-7a-edicao/.Bojnec.(2010).Rural Tourism,Rural Economy Diversification,and Sustainable Development,https:/www.hippocampus.si/ISSN/2335-4194/3_1-2_7-15.pdf.Buchgraber K.et.al.(n.d).Grassland Farming in Austria status quo and future prospective.https:/raumberg-gumpenstein.at/jdownloads/FODOK/2011/fodo