European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) and the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism)

In an important step toward promoting bicycle tourism, the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) and the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) have officially extended their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for another two years. This renewal highlights the critical role cycling tourism plays in advancing sustainable tourism practices.

Originally signed in 2021, the renewed MoU includes several key areas:

– Joint promotion of cycling routes across Europe**, including the EuroVelo network.
– Collaboration on potential research initiatives** focused on sustainable mobility and cycling tourism.
– Organization of joint activities**, such as workshops, conferences, and public events.
– Emphasizing the economic, cultural, and regional impacts of cycling tourism.**

The initiative promotes a slower, more sustainable form of travel that fosters appreciation for local cuisine, cultural heritage, and community life in European countries and regions.

Leadership Perspectives
Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the UNWTO, emphasized that cycling tourism provides numerous benefits beyond creating sustainable tourism products. It supports local economies, enhances health and well-being, fosters cultural immersion, and encourages investments in infrastructure and road safety. He called cycling tourism a powerful mechanism to address seasonality and overcrowding in tourism while aiding rural development.

Henk Swarttouw, President of ECF, highlighted cycling tourism’s global and local benefits, including its positive effects on health, sustainability, culture, and quality of life. He expressed pride in partnering with UNWTO to expand cycling tourism worldwide, particularly by improving data collection and promoting innovation in this growing segment.

Recent Collaboration Highlights
Over the past two years, ECF and UNWTO have focused on data and event-driven initiatives. Alessandra Priante, UNWTO’s Director for Europe, participated in key ECF events, including the “25 Years of EuroVelo” online celebration in November 2022 and the **EuroVelo & Cycling Tourism Conference 2023 in İzmir, Turkey.

Priante noted the exponential growth of cycling tourism, moving it beyond a niche market. It now represents a significant driver of sustainability and aligns with the increasing trend of eco-conscious tourism, particularly among younger generations.

Example Project: Reviving Lake Constance Rickshaws
The initiative also inspires projects like the revitalization of rickshaw tours around Lake Constance, now being reconsidered after 20 years.

This extended partnership between ECF and UNWTO underscores the shared commitment to fostering sustainable and inclusive tourism through cycling.