Published on
October 19, 2025
The European Commission’s ongoing consultation for the Digital Fairness Act (DFA) has raised concerns over its survey methodology, which many believe doesn’t fully represent the diversity of European opinions. With only a couple of weeks left in the public consultation process, which is part of the EU’s efforts to regulate digital markets, businesses, tourists, and individuals across Europe have expressed dissatisfaction with the limited opportunity for those opposed to the proposal to voice their concerns in a structured, fact-based manner.
The current consultation survey design has been criticized for skewing responses toward those in favor of tighter digital regulations, with little space for those who disagree to explain their position. This flaw could result in a distorted assessment of the Digital Fairness Act’s potential impact, overlooking key perspectives that are critical for fair and comprehensive policymaking.
The Flaws in the Consultation Design
The primary issue with the current consultation structure lies in its limited approach to gathering responses from those who oppose the proposed regulatory changes. While respondents who support the Digital Fairness Act are given the option to provide detailed, reasoned explanations for their views, those who believe no action is needed are presented with only one choice—“No actions are needed”—without the opportunity to elaborate or present counterarguments.
This imbalance raises concerns over the fairness of the entire process. European Union consultations are meant to reflect a wide array of viewpoints, yet the current survey methodology restricts this diversity of opinion. If left unchecked, this approach could lead to a policy that does not accurately represent the views of all stakeholders, including tourists and businesses who may be impacted by new digital regulations.
The Impact on Tourism and Travel Businesses
For travelers and tourism businesses, the Digital Fairness Act could have significant implications. The Act’s goals to regulate digital markets and promote fairness could affect everything from online booking systems to digital payment services, which are key to the modern tourism industry. With more EU regulations potentially targeting the digital infrastructure that tourists rely on—such as mobile apps for flight bookings, hotel reservations, and travel packages—the lack of comprehensive feedback from all affected parties could result in policies that do not consider the needs and realities of the tourism sector.
Travelers could face inconvenience if these regulations are enacted without fully understanding the challenges that businesses, particularly small operators, may face. It is essential that the consultation process allows for an inclusive dialogue that takes into account the potential ripple effects on the tourism sector. Without a balanced consultation process, decisions may be made that lead to restrictions or higher costs for travelers, or that affect the overall travel experience in Europe.
Step-by-Step Guidelines for Engaging in the Consultation Process
For those who wish to participate in the consultation process, here are some practical tips:
- Know the Consultation Process:
The consultation is open to all citizens, businesses, and organizations. It includes a series of online surveys where you can share your views about the Digital Fairness Act. - Understand the Issues:
Read through the Digital Fairness Act proposal and understand the key areas of concern, especially how they relate to digital services in tourism, booking platforms, and digital payments. - Provide Comprehensive Feedback:
While the survey may limit options for those opposing the proposal, it is still possible to give feedback. Consider submitting a well-reasoned position through the open-ended sections available in the consultation. - Highlight Your Concerns:
If you are in the tourism sector or a frequent traveler, make sure to address how the proposed regulations may impact your business or travel experiences. Explain your perspective with data or case examples, where applicable. - Support a Balanced Approach:
Advocate for a balanced regulatory approach that does not limit innovation in the travel industry. Suggest ways to ensure that digital fairness benefits all stakeholders, including businesses and tourists. - Submit Before the Deadline:
The consultation ends soon, so ensure you submit your feedback before the deadline to ensure your voice is heard.
Calls for Fairer Consultation Practices
Critics of the current consultation process have called on the European Commission to adopt a neutral and balanced survey design that allows for all viewpoints to be represented. By creating a more inclusive and comprehensive consultation process, the EU can ensure that any regulations introduced will better reflect the needs of all affected parties. This would align with Better Regulation principles, which call for fairness, transparency, and a genuine attempt to understand the potential impacts on all sectors, including tourism and business.
What Needs to Change in the Consultation Process?
The European Commission must raise the bar for consultation standards. To make the consultation process more inclusive, several changes are needed:
- Neutral Survey Questions: The Commission should ensure that survey questions are neutral, allowing respondents to express differing opinions.
- Multiple Options for Opponents: Respondents who disagree with the proposal should be given the opportunity to explain their position in detail, just like those who support the regulations.
- Transparency in Results: The results of the consultation should be transparent, showing how different opinions have been considered and taken into account when shaping policy decisions.
By adopting these changes, the European Commission can ensure that the consultation process adheres to its core principles and reflects the full range of European perspectives.
The Road Ahead: A Fairer, More Transparent EU Policy Making
As the public consultation for the Digital Fairness Act comes to a close, it is crucial that the European Commission listens to all voices—not just those who are in favor of increased regulation. The impact of these regulations on business and tourism could be far-reaching, and it is essential that policymakers base their decisions on a balanced and comprehensive understanding of all views. By fostering a more inclusive consultation process, the EU can ensure that its policies support fairness, innovation, and growth in all sectors, including travel and tourism.
Key Takeaways
- The consultation for the Digital Fairness Act is seen as biased, with insufficient opportunities for those opposing the proposed regulations to provide detailed feedback.
- These regulations could significantly impact the tourism industry, from digital booking platforms to payment systems.
- To create fairer policies, the European Commission must adopt a neutral, balanced survey design and ensure that all viewpoints are represented.
- Travelers and tourism businesses are encouraged to participate in the consultation and advocate for balanced regulatory approaches.
By ensuring a more inclusive and transparent consultation process, the European Commission can help create policies that support the travel industry, provide fair regulations, and maintain the EU’s commitment to evidence-based policymaking.
