The Role OF THE Hospitality AND Tourism Sector IN Peace-Building: A Case Study OF Butuan City, Philippines
Keywords:
Tourism, Peace-building, Hospitality Sector, Butuan CityAbstract
Background: The relationship between tourism and peace has gained increasing academic interest, yet a comprehensive understanding of how the hospitality sector at a local level contributes to peace-building remains a research gap. This study examines this dynamic in the context of Butuan City, Philippines, a region with a rich history and a growing tourism sector. The purpose is to investigate the mechanisms through which the hospitality industry can be a catalyst for peace, focusing on its transformative potential.
Purpose: This research aims to explore the intricate link between the tourism and hospitality sector and peace-building efforts in Butuan City. By synthesizing existing literature and secondary data, the study seeks to understand how specific initiatives within this sector are associated with social harmony and sustainable development, which are foundational for lasting peace.
Methodology: A qualitative case study approach was employed, relying on an extensive literature review and analysis of secondary data. The study draws on reports from local government entities and academic sources to construct a narrative on the interplay between tourism growth and peace in Butuan City. Thematic analysis was used to identify key patterns and themes.
Results: The findings indicate that the hospitality sector in Butuan City is associated with peace-building through economic empowerment, job creation, and fostering cross-cultural understanding. While the sector has faced challenges, its growth has a tangible link to improved social and economic indicators that underpin a peaceful society. The study highlights both the successes and the complexities of this relationship.
Conclusion: The hospitality sector has the potential to be a significant driver of peace-building, but this potential is contingent on strategic and inclusive practices. The findings underscore the importance of targeted policies and community engagement to harness tourism's transformative power for positive social change. This research provides a framework for understanding and leveraging tourism for peace in other similar contexts.
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