Croatian MEP Nikolina Brnjac to Speak at WTTC Global Summit in Malta
Valletta, Malta — Nikolina Brnjac, a Croatian Member of the European Parliament and former Minister of Tourism, will join over 100 global speakers at the WTTC Global Summit from October 7 to 9, 2026. Brnjac brings extensive expertise in transport and tourism policies, with a focus on growth, mobility, connectivity, and sustainability.
The 26th WTTC Global Summit, themed FUTU[RE]SET, aims to unite government leaders, Travel & Tourism CEOs, and senior industry figures at the Mediterranean Conference Centre. This event marks the last chance for non-WTTC executives to obtain limited Executive Access Passes for this traditionally invitation-only summit.
WTTC expressed excitement about Brnjac’s participation, highlighting her unique policy perspective on access and mobility, and how they impact tourism growth.
Who is Nikolina Brnjac?
Born in 1978 in Karlovac, Croatia, Brnjac holds a PhD in Transport and Traffic Technology from the University of Zagreb. Her career includes serving as State Secretary in the Ministry of Sea, Transport and Infrastructure and representing Croatia in the Council of the European Union.
As Minister of Tourism and Sports from 2020 to 2024, she addressed the COVID-19 crisis and later focused on sustainable tourism practices in her work as an MEP, contributing to local community benefits.
Brnjac’s Vision for Tourism
Brnjac advocates for enhanced connectivity, sustainability, and investment in transport infrastructure. She emphasizes the need for tourism changes to benefit local communities, championing better data and sustainable transport solutions. In April 2026, she stated, “Real change in tourism happens at the local level.”
Her direct connection with WTTC includes discussions on “Sustainable Tourism” during meetings in Cairo in May 2026.
WTTC Global Summit Overview
The 26th WTTC Global Summit will take place from October 7 to 9, 2026, at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta, featuring over 200 Travel & Tourism CEOs and prominent speakers like former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Topics will include connectivity, investment, and the future of tourism.
Malta, with tourism projected to contribute US$4.9 billion to its economy (16.9% of GDP), serves as an ideal backdrop for discussions on the balance between tourism growth and local community needs.
Last Opportunity for WTTC Malta
This Summit introduces an Executive Access Pass for executives from outside the WTTC membership. Interested parties should act quickly, as limited passes are available.
Why Brnjac Matters
Brnjac’s multifaceted background gives her a unique perspective on the interplay between tourism and transport. With the industry demanding connectivity and communities advocating for sustainable development, her contributions at the Summit will be crucial in shaping the future of tourism. As discussions continue on the ethical dimensions of tourism growth, Brnjac’s insights will help address key questions about access, mobility, and the desired outcomes for future tourism models.
