Understanding the Multi-Scalar Nature of Tourism Policy

  1. Local Scale

    • Definition: The local level includes municipalities, communities, and businesses that directly interact with tourists and manage the day-to-day operations of tourism. Local authorities often address issues such as land use, local infrastructure, community engagement, and cultural preservation.
    • Key Roles: Local tourism boards, city councils, community-based organizations, and local businesses are key players. They are responsible for ensuring that tourism activities align with the needs of residents, protect local heritage, and benefit the local economy.
    • Example: In Venice, Italy, local authorities have imposed regulations on cruise ship arrivals and implemented a tourist tax to manage over-tourism and protect the cityu2019s cultural heritage.

  2. Regional Scale

    • Definition: At the regional level, tourism policy is shaped by broader geographical and administrative boundaries, such as states, provinces, or regional organizations. Regional policies address issues that transcend local borders, such as transportation networks, regional marketing, and environmental management.
    • Key Roles: Regional tourism boards, state governments, and regional development agencies collaborate to promote tourism at a larger scale, often focusing on destination branding and attracting tourists to multiple localities within the region.
    • Example: The European Alps region spans multiple countries (Switzerland, Austria, Italy, and France) and has a coordinated tourism policy that promotes sustainable alpine tourism while managing the shared natural environment.

  3. National Scale

    • Definition: National governments play a critical role in setting tourism policy frameworks that provide regulations, funding, and promotional strategies. National tourism policies are often designed to foster economic growth, enhance international competitiveness, and ensure tourism aligns with broader national development goals.
    • Key Roles: Ministries of Tourism, national tourism boards, and other governmental agencies at the national level create policies on visa regulations, infrastructure development, marketing campaigns, and environmental sustainability.
    • Example: Japanu2019s national tourism policy includes the u201cVisit Japanu201d campaign, aimed at increasing international visitor numbers, boosting economic growth, and promoting cultural exchange.

  4. Global Scale

    • Definition: The global scale involves international organizations, agreements, and networks that shape tourism policy worldwide. Global policies address cross-border issues such as climate change, international mobility, human rights, and sustainable development. Tourism is affected by international treaties, global tourism organizations, and global market forces.
    • Key Roles: Organizations like the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), and international NGOs play a key role in promoting global tourism standards, ethics, and sustainability practices.
    • Example: The UNWTOu2019s Global Code of Ethics for Tourism is a global policy framework promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices across the world. It encourages countries to align their policies with ethical tourism standards.
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