REACHING COMMON VIEWS: THE RAISON D’ETRE OF THE TOURISM EUROPE FORUM (TEF)

Recognizing the diversity of the European tourism industry does not mean that it is impossible for a sector composed of diverse elements to reach common views on some issues. It is does not mean that it is impossible to identify common issues and to work on them. It is in the industry’s interest to have a better, more powerful voice in its relations with the European Parliament and the European Commission, hence the initiative for a Tourism Europe Forum (TEF) allowing debate and impartial commentaries on key tourism issues and an enhanced dialogue with Members of the European Parliament. 

As part of the Tourism Europe Forum (TEF), the Tourism Industry Committee (TIC) is called to play a major role. The TIC will be comprised of a wide range of leading players in the European Tourism Industry.

• The European tourism business associations have an important mediating role given their work with national associations and direct contacts with major interests in the industry and individual enterprises;
• Stakeholders: accommodations; adventure; attractions and sightseeing; food and beverage; general services; meetings and facilities; tourism services; transportation (surface, air and marine); travel trade; visitor activities;
• Authorities with responsibility for tourism development;
• Individuals with knowledge of the industry and good communication skills who are able to articulate the vision of the TEF and to communicate this vision widely;
• Support staff who to work on detail, develop supporting documentation and ensure that the TEF develops in an orderly fashion;
• External advisers who can look critically at what needs to be done;
• Technical experts to advise on relevant issues.

The TEF will need to be able to account for its actions, both to the stakeholders as a whole and to the wider community and to conduct its business in an open and transparent manner. The involvement of a wide body of stakeholders and active co-operation between public authorities and private enterprises providing tourism services is of paramount importance.

Tasks of the Tourism Industry Committee (TIC)

• Provides speakers;
• Draft briefing papers;
• Make suggestions on the programmes of events of the TEF;
• Decides the level of member contributions to finance the TEF;
• Elects Administrative Committee members;
• Reviews the activities of the TEF's Administrative Committee.

 Tasks of the Administrative Committee

 The Administrative Committee is drawn from and elected by members of the Tourism Industry Committee

•  Has responsibility for regular liaison with the Steering Committee on the role of the TEF;
• Sets the agenda of meetings;
• Selects speakers and briefing drafters;
• Decides on application for membership.