European Union's crucial tourism sector decimated by COVID-19 pandemic

In a number of European Union countries tourism normally accounts for up to 30% of economic activity. In Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece and Croatia 15% of the workforce were employed by the industry.

COVID-19 has changed all that. EU tourism ministers have just concluded an emergency videoconference. Also on Monday the European Parliament's finance committee held a meeting in Brussels.

There was criticism of the EU's response to crisis thus far. Lawmakers relayed the wishes of citizens. EU unemployment levels will break all previous records this year. Some estimates suggest it could reach between 20 and 30 per cent. Economists say high unemployment creates a vicious circle.

In other developments it has been widely reported that the EU watered down criticism towards China in one of its reports on the use of disinformation during the COVID-19 crisis. It is claimed this happened following pressure from Beijing.

Much of the focus in the EU now is on lifting lockdowns. Member states appear to be adopting very different approaches which is raising concern.

The European Commission warns the lifting of restrictions must be coordinated across the bloc and happen based on the advice of epidemiologists. The commission insists easing lockdowns needs to be phased, gradual and coherent.