The Danube Tourist Commission has enjoyed over 30 years of cooperation among the eight member states along the length of the river.

The Danube Tourist Commission is the latest addition to the ICPDR family of groups actively participating in the work of the ICPDR. The commission works to promote tourism in the area and raise the international profile of the entire region.

The motivation for joining the ICPDR was clear. "We share a common interest in good water quality and a safe environment," says Ursula Deutsch, General Secretary of the Danube Tourist Commission. Tourists, she explained, are attracted to the beautiful landscape of the river and the tourism industry depends on a healthy environment to keep the tourists returning.

Members of the association - representatives from eight riparian states, as well as supporting members like Casinos Austria AG - have worked together since 1972, remarkably free from bureaucracy. "It's really quite emotional that the cooperation on the Danube has worked so well for over 30 years," says Deutsch. The commission brings this history of cooperation to the ICPDR, and worked closely with the ICPDR to mobilise their tourism partners for last year's Danube Day celebrations.

The Danube Tourist Commission looks forward to stronger participation with the ICPDR. While their focus is the Danube as a popular travel destination, other concerns such as river traffic and water quality, are equally important. "All these issues impact tourism to the area and the ability of tourists to enjoy the stunning beauty of the Danube," said Deutsch.

Kirstie Shepherd
is a freelance journalist and the Editor of Danube Watch.
She has called the Danube River Basin home since 2000.