SCOM partner meeting in Apatin – focus on inclusive, cross-border cycling tourism

On November 19–20, 2025, the city of Apatin (Serbia) hosted the fifth SCOM partner meeting of the IBC project.

The two-day transnational event focused on the development of cross-border cycling tourism and the strengthening of social inclusion, with particular emphasis on the opportunities for involving the older generation and disadvantaged young people. The ceremonial hall of Apatin Town Hall provided a fitting venue for the professional programs.

On the first day of the meeting, the pilot partners presented their experiences in detail in the three project areas (HU–HR–SI, A–SK–HU, HU–HR–SRB) in relation to the tourism packages developed and tested. The presentations and case studies highlighted how services related to cycle routes can be tailored to the specific needs of different target groups, including vulnerable social groups, and how cycle tourism can contribute to the economic and social strengthening of local communities.

During the joint consultations, special attention was paid to the elaboration of the TICPM (Transnational Inclusive Cycle Product Model) guide and the joint processing of the practical challenges of inclusive cycling tourism. The partners analysed the implementation possibilities of the Social Inclusion Travel Challenge task in interactive group work, formulating the directions for further action for each pilot area.

At the end of the day, participants reviewed the financial and professional progress of the project, discussed current management tasks, and began preparations for the next partner meeting.

On the second day of the program, the focus was on the experiences and lessons learned from the pilot tests that had already taken place and on sharing good practices. The partners presented how the involvement of vulnerable groups and the integration of local products can be achieved in a sustainable way in cycling tourism. In addition, tried and tested methods for the long-term maintenance of cross-border cycle routes were also discussed.