Tourism Policy of the European Union: Recent Developments and Future Challenges

Abstract. Introduction. Tourism is the most intensive economic system that is developing. The rate of its growth is almost two times higher than the same of other branches of the world economy. Tourism contributes to the active local development of regions, the development of national ideas, and the employment of the local population. In addition, tourism ensures the inflow of funds to budgets, foreign currency, and the improvement of finances. The COVID-19 pandemic has made adjustments to the development of the tourism industry. Practically all countries experienced an outflow of tourists. It is negatively affected the socioeconomic condition of the region. For example, inflows of funds to local budgets have decreased, many people have lost their jobs, the number of unemployed has increased, and the income level of the local population has decreased. So, with this in mind, the European Union 2022 proposed new approaches to tourism development. The European Agenda for Tourism 2030 will be interesting for Ukraine. Purpose. The purpose of the article is to study the European experience regarding the formation of priority directions for the development of the tourism industry until 2030 to implement the best practices for the changes in the tourism sector in Ukraine. Results. Over the years, the tourism sector has proven its resilience and ability to «recover» from any economic crises. But also to contribute to economic and social recovery. The tourism industry in 2020 received perhaps the worse results from its activities in its entire history. The main goal of the «European Agenda for Tourism 2030» is the transformation and reboot of the tourism industry. In the future, tourism must be more sustainable, digital, global, social, and responsible. The goal of the strategy is green and digital technologies, processes of social and economic integration, social responsibility, training, and support, as well as the renewal of policy and management in the tourism industry. The hospitality industry and public catering create 18% of all food waste, so tourism, hotel, and restaurant establishments should recommend reducing the waste. Also, they need to implement food waste management strategies. Conclusions. Despite the negative impact, the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to the transformation of the tourism industry. Thus, the world community has united to create a new narrative - sustainable tourism development. The full realization of the tourism sector's potential will provide positive change and opportunities for all people all over the world. The tourism industry of the European Union is already strengthening its status as a world leader due to the high demand for regional and domestic travel, as well as ecological and sustainable tourism. Reducing waste is a primary goal of sustainable development, which is relevant for the global hospitality industry. Hotels and accommodations are better prepared than others to address these challenges thanks to the growing trend of environmental management systems and certification across the industry. The presented experience of the European Union regarding the future vision of the tourism industry will be relevant for study and implementation in the tourism industry of Ukraine.