National Tourism Policies and Sustainability: A Comparative Study of EU Countries
National Tourism Policies and Sustainability: A Comparative Study of EU Countries

Author(s): Ana Sofia Duque, Maria Lucia Pato
Subject(s): Social Sciences
Published by: Udruženje ekonomista i menadžera Balkana
Keywords: Sustainability; Tourism planning; National plans; Tourism strategy; EU countries
Summary/Abstract: The main goal of this study is to analyze the national tourism plans of the 27 EU countries, and understand the significance attributed to the theme of sustainability in these strategic documents. This work was based on a methodology of document analysis. Based on the list of the 27 member states of the EU, research was carried out on the existence of national tourism plans that are currently in force. A content analysis was performed. The research resulted in the identification of 25 national strategic plans that were carefully analyzed. Of the documents analyzed, the theme of sustainability is very common and is included in most of the strategic visions defined. The main limitation of the study is related to the methodology used. Researching and interpreting the strategic documents was also challenging, as many of the strategic plans were only available in the country’s national language, with no English versions. Based on the analysis carried out, it is possible to reflect on the commitment that each member state has made in relation to the development of tourism in its territory: whether sustainability is a fundamental premise, or if it is not a major concern.

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