DOES EU FUNDING SUPPORT THE DIVERSIFICATION OF THE TOURISM OFFER IN SERBIA AS A RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC?

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to answer the question of whether EU funding supports tourism in Serbia in a situation where this sector of the economy is facing astonishing figures of decline which is caused by the coronavirus. The paper is divided into two segments. The first part is based on the presentation of the possibility of diversification of the tourist offer in Serbia and the second part provides an overview of the literature related to EU funds. The research is interdisciplinary because it includes selective forms of tourism which united in a single tourist product can contribute to a tourist valorization of all areas and contribute as a response to the crisis caused by the pandemic. Contribution of EU funds can be seen through the connection between investment activities and the increase in tourist traffic. The special goal of the paper is education and raising awareness about the preservation of rural and eco areas, eco production and healthy lifestyles, which will contribute to the tourist offer and also a pleasure and enjoyment for visitors.