Covid certificate – Photo © European Union 2021 – Source EP
(BRUSSELS) – More than 591 million EU Digital COVID Certificates – seen as a crucial part of Europe’s response to the pandemic – have been generated, the EU said Monday in a report covering its implementation across the EU.
The certificate, which covers COVID-19 vaccination, test and recovery, facilitates safe travel for citizens, and it has also been key to support Europe’s hard-hit tourism industry.
The EU executive says the certificate is a success worldwide and has set a global standard as currently the only system in operation at international level. 43 countries across four continents are plugged into the system, and more will follow over the coming weeks and months.
“The quick roll-out of the system, not just in the EU but internationally, is an example of the EU cooperating and delivering in extraordinary circumstances,” said Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides: “It is a strong European tool that has allowed us to move towards the reopening of our economies and societies and the exercise of free movement in a safe and coordinated way.”
EU Digital COVID Certificate system in figures:
- EU Member States have issued more than 591 million EU Digital COVID Certificates
- 43 countries are already connected to the EU system: 27 EU Member States, 3 European Economic Area (EEA) countries, Switzerland, and 12 other countries and territories. In total, the Commission was approached by 60 third countries interested in joining the EU system. Beyond the ones already connected, technical discussions are ongoing with 28 of these countries.
- The air transport sector greatly benefited from the EU Digital COVID Certificate, which became operational just in time for the summer peak travel period. The association of Airports Council International (ACI Europe) reported that in July 2021 a total passenger volumes more than doubled compared to July 2020. ACI Europe attributes this change to the rollout of the EU Digital COVID Certificate along with the easing of travel restrictions.
- According to an EU Parliament’s Eurobarometer survey, about two thirds (65%) of respondents agreed that the EU Digital COVID Certificate is the safest means for free travel in Europe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- 20 EU Member States also use the EU Digital COVID Certificate for domestic purposes, such as for the access to large events and restaurants, cinemas and museums, with an additional national legal basis.
