Fragmented authority and institutional redundancy in tourism disaster management: Evidence from Toba, Indonesia

Abstract

This study aims to elucidate the fragmentation of authority and institutional redundancy in tourism governance in response to disasters. The intricacy of governance engenders substantial challenges stemming from overlapping power and ambiguous operational catastrophe management within the tourism sector. Hence, these factors underpin the rationale for research in Lake Toba, Indonesia. A quantitative exploratory technique characterizes and elaborates the descriptive research statistically. The study involved 205 respondents and stakeholders. The study's findings reveal fragmented authority and institutional redundancy in prioritizing destinations, adversely impacting catastrophe response. Nonetheless, if addressed jointly, these challenges can enhance governance and the efficacy of disaster management. Trust, dedication, and equitable roles between tourism authorities and local communities are vital. A comprehensive relational approach is crucial for formulating a robust catastrophe management strategy. Moreover, data-driven collaboration and adaptive coordination methods can address institutional fragmentation, enhance bureaucratic efficiency and promote a more cohesive approach to tourism governance. Policymakers must include resilience in institutional frameworks and crisis management techniques, perceiving resilience as a continuous joint endeavor. These findings indicate the necessity for a contextual and nuanced approach to destination management, including local dynamics and minimizing the potential for conflict.