(Brussels) Later today, the European Parliament in Brussels will be hosting a high-level conference on tourism: “A European strategy to support the competitiveness of the tourist industry, a driving factor for job creation”, is the theme that will be discussed by the 700 participants, coming from the political world, cultural institutions and the tourist industry. According to 2014 figures, tourism accounts for over 5% of the EU’s Gross Domestic Product, but it poses challenges: “Impact on environment and local life, temporary and seasonal jobs, and growing competition from other destinations”, says the programme, which describes the three work sessions: the first one will discuss “how to attract more investments and improve the conditions, in terms of economy and skills”. The topic chosen for the second session is “innovation and digital economy” and the one for the third session is “how to retain the EU’s world leadership as a tourist destination”. Forecasts actually show that the number of international visitors will double up from 1.1 to 2 billion by 2030. And therefore, according to the World Tourism and Travel Council, over 5 million new jobs could be created in the tourist industry in the European Union, 20% of which for young people. Organised to coincide with World Tourism Day by the President of the EU Parliament, Antonio Tajani, who will give the opening address, and with the support of the Parliament’s committees, the conference will be streamed live.