2nd Local Stakeholder Group meeting in Tartu

On March 12th, representatives of local governments and partner organizations met in Tartu to hear about the ongoing project and get an overview of the tourism sector in Tartu County.

This was an important meeting where the future of Tartu County's tourism policy was discussed. The necessity of the Tartu County Development Strategy 2040 was emphasized, with preparations starting in the fall and work beginning in the spring. The best practices from the Tourism4SDG partners' meeting held in Lublin, Poland, were introduced. You can read about the Lublin meeting here.

Sustainability expert Marleen Viidul presented an overview of the tourism sector in Tartu County, highlighting the region's characteristics and the functioning of the tourism network. The challenges of the region, which the project supports in solving, were also addressed. For example, limited transport connections (only one regular flight and poor connections with Riga), the region's low international recognition, uneven selection and quality of tourism services, lack of a clear vision and priorities for sustainable tourism development at the county level, and the low interest and capacity of local governments to contribute to the development of the tourism sector.

Important steps to improve sustainable tourism in Tartu County include agreeing on sustainable tourism development goals based on the South Estonia tourism development strategy. Adding activities and metrics that align with sustainable development principles to local government development plans. Enhancing county-wide tourism cooperation and sharing good practices.

The meeting provided valuable ideas and directions on how to better shape the future of tourism in Tartu County and promote sustainability.