The citizen participation, factor associated with the development of sustainable tourism: Case Ibagué City (Colombia)

Abstract

Tourism development from the field of sustainability focused on the social dimension and the dynamics of citizen participation represent a key role in the city of Ibague. This paper is supported by a case study that investigates citizen participation. Where the community is considered an associated factor for the development of sustainable tourism in the city. The results were obtained through a technique of content analysis to information collected through survey. These results reflect subjective positions that permeate problems in participation. In the final considerations an Iceberg diagram is presented. Which was built from levels that show problems and failure. These have prevented consolidating an offer and tourist vocation in the city of Ibagué. Based on the mental models identified, a feedback loop between political parties and citizens is signaled. That inhibits participation and has its roots in the discussion about the im-portance of local development.