What Role Can Community-Based Tourism Have in Sustainable Development?

Abstract

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development states that its goals are to make sustainable improvements. One of the sustainable improvements is through the independence of the village community. A tourism village is one of the concepts in achieving sustainable developments goals. Community based tourism (CBT) has an impact on local communities in developing countries. This study aims to examine the role of CBT in reaching these goals. Using a case study approach that focuses on the sustainability of economic, social and cultural life, on protecting the environment, and on maintaining the quality of community life, this research is based on interviews conducted with village leaders, managers of designated Tourist Villages, and the local village communities. The results of this study indicate that the existence of CBT is able to contribute to the sustainability of the economic, social, cultural, and environmental aspects of the community as well contribute to local people’s satisfaction with their community life. Thus, CBT plays a role in the achievement of the goals of sustainable development. Keywords—community based tourism, sustainable development