The 1st consultation of the Thassos Residents’ Committee for Tourism has been completed
The first consultation of the Thassos Residents' Committee for Tourism (EKTTh) was successfully held at the offices of the Thassos Tourism Organisation, at Kalogeriko in Limenas, Thassos, with the participation of all twelve (12) of its members.
The meeting was an initial, meaningful step towards the systematic recording and analysis of residents' views on tourism activity on the island. The discussion focused on the everyday experience of citizens, highlighting both the benefits and the challenges that accompany the intensification of tourism.
During the consultation, it was jointly acknowledged that tourism is a key driver of economic and social development for Thassos, boosting employment, the operation of local businesses and the overall development momentum of the island. At the same time, it was noted that this growth is accompanied by increasing pressure on infrastructure, greater demands on natural resources and impacts on residents' quality of life, making a more balanced and organised management of tourism necessary.
The discussion highlighted key priority areas:
- Protection of the natural environment and ecosystems
- Strengthening and modernisation of infrastructure
- Safeguarding quality of life and social cohesion
- Management of seasonality and overcrowding
- Promotion and preservation of the island's cultural identity
Particular emphasis was placed on issues that directly affect daily life, such as infrastructure and environmental protection, while the need for long-term planning in areas such as cultural identity and visitor management was also recognised.
The members of the Committee underlined that the effective operation of the EKTTh requires transparency, consistency in recording and monitoring proposals, and genuine cooperation with local bodies. The active participation of residents, through information activities, workshops and open dialogue processes, is also considered crucial.
Finally, factors affecting the work of the Committee were noted, such as citizens' limited availability of time (especially during the tourist season), as well as challenges relating to the implementation of proposals and the avoidance of bureaucratic or other obstacles.
This first consultation lays the foundations for a more organised, participatory and evidence-based approach to tourism management in Thassos. The Thassos Residents' Committee for Tourism aims to function as a reliable channel of communication between citizens and institutions, contributing actively to shaping a sustainable, balanced and socially acceptable tourism model for the island.
The following members of the Committee took part in the meeting:
Elisavet Chrysafi, Eleni Ziliachovinou, Evangelia Mytilinou, Maria Sappou, Konstantina Chalkia, Christina Douka, Dimitris Ydriotis, Panagiotis Giannakos, Alexandros Papafilippou, Georgios Paschalis, Aristofanis Christofas and Michalis Markianos.