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The ETLC launched at the European Tourism Forum on 9 October 2009, the European Trade Union Charter on Tourism, pointing out main challenges for workers in tourism and formulating expectations vis-à-vis the different stakeholders, employers, political actors and consumers.



The ETLC underlines the need for quality employment, respect of workers’ and trade union rights and social dialogue, claims equal treatment for mobile and migrant workers, and calls for proper information and consultation of workers and trade unions in case of outsourcing, subcontracting, restructuring and the entry of investment capital in travel, transport and tourism companies.



The ETLC Charter stresses that a sustainable development of tourism can only be achieved when – alongside the economic aspects and the protection of environment and cultural heritage – the social dimension is taken into account. This means first of all the need to create sustainable employment in the tourism sector, as the quality of services depends largely on employment conditions, qualification of workers and workers’ motivation.



The targeted promotion of economically, environmentally and socially sustainable tourism is needed, aiming at raising the consumers' awareness that high-quality tourism services have their price. Tourists should be encouraged to consider social, environmental and economic impacts in their choice for travel and destinations, before making a decision, and to opt for activities that promote sustainable tourism, i.e. reduce their carbon footprint, contribute to sustainable employment and preserve natural and cultural heritage.



Furthermore, social achievements such as the right to paid holiday and regulation of working time have to be safeguarded and extended, since these are basic preconditions for tourism.



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