As tourism has become a key sector in the NSPA regions during the last decade, the NSPA recognises the importance of developing an EU Strategy for Sustainable Tourism. However, the strategy must not neglect the Arctic regions with their structural challenges such as long distances, limited transport and digital infrastructure. As well as predominance of micro-enterprises, small and medium-sized enterprises (SME:s) and destination management organisations (DMO:s). On top of this, the Arctic also have fragile ecosystems that are especially exposed to climate-related changes and risks.

With the structural and environmental challenges of the Arctic as a basis, the NSPA provides 7 recommendations to the European Commission:

1. Shift from volume-driven growth to regenerative and inclusive tourism. The NSPA requests the EU to promote a transition from high-volume tourism to models that empower local communities, restore ecosystems, and integrate Indigenous perspectives.
2. Strengthen support for SME:s, DMO:s, and year-round employment. Targeted EU support for SME:s and DMO:s is essential for the NSPA regions. Tourism can drive skills development, promote gender equality, and support youth integration by offering meaningful year-round careers in NSPA regions.
3. Promote internationally recognised and trusted sustainability standards. The EU should support the adoption of internationally recognised standards such as those developed by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). These standards provide predictability as well as incentives for enterprises to get sustainability certifications and promote sustainable tourism.
4. Improve data, research, and knowledge for sustainable tourism. The NSPA encourages the EU to invest in research and data collection related to Arctic tourism, climate impacts, visitor flows, and similar subjects. Strengthening the knowledge base is key to informed decision-making and develop smart tourism management.
5. Address regulatory gaps in seasonal establishments and land use conflicts. The current lack of regulation around foreign operators, especially those that take advantage of “everyman's right to roam,” undermines local economies and sustainability. The EU should develop a regulatory framework that ensures local ownership, responsible tourism practices, and addresses land-use conflicts like those in sectors such as forestry and reindeer husbandry.
6. Invest in infrastructure, accessibility and digital connectivity. The NSPA calls for EU prioritisation of green transport corridors (air, sea, rail, and road), and digital infrastructure (broadband and 5G), and digital services.
7. Ensure cross-border cooperation and long-term financing. Access to long-term EU funding through programmes such as Interreg Aurora and Horizon Europe is important for sustainable tourism development in the NSPA regions. These instruments must be made flexible and less bureaucratic.

The NSPA believes that tourism should strengthen local communities, not burden them. Thus, the aim of NSPA:s position is to encourage the EU to include the perspectives of regions with a low population density, vulnerable nature and strong cultural traditions. This can contribute to stronger local communities and safeguard nature and cultural heritage, as well as provide a foundation for resilient communities that are prepared for both a changing environment and geopolitical threats.

Read the full position paper here 

Read about the European Commission’s proposal on the upcoming Strategy for Sustainable Tourism here