The European Commission has revealed the EU's COVID-19 digital certificate has played a significant role in Europe's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, as more than 591 million certificates have been generated so far.
In a press release on 18 October, the EU Commission explained that the certificate, which covers vaccination, recovery and COVID-19 testing of holders, has significantly facilitated safe travel. In addition, the document was also a key component in supporting the European tourism industry which was severely affected by the pandemic.
The EU's COVID-19 digital certificate has been seen as a global success, as it has set a global standard and is the only system currently operating internationally.
"The EU's COVID digital certificate system has helped to mitigate the negative economic effects of the pandemic. It has given travelers the confidence to travel safely in the EU and increased travel this summer, "he said. Justice Commissioner Didie Reynders.
At present, 43 countries are already connected to the EU system, of which 27 are EU Member States, three of which are European Economic Area (EEA) countries and another 12 territories and countries.
In addition, 60 third countries have shown interest in joining the EU's COVID-19 system. With the exception of those that have already been successfully connected to the system, 28 of the 60 countries willing to join this system are still in the process.
Airports Council International (ACI Europe) reported that in July 2021 alone the number of passengers increased by more than 50% compared to July 2020. This change in figures is mainly attributed to the launch of the EU COVID-19 digital certificate, together with the reduction of passenger restrictions. travel.