The Role of Community-Based Tourism in Achieving Inclusive Growth: A Pathway to Sustainable and Equitable Development

Abstract

In an era where the negative impacts of mass tourism are increasingly evident, the quest for more sustainable and equitable tourism models has gained significant momentum. This paper posits that Community-Based Tourism (CBT) serves as a critical vehicle for achieving inclusive growth within the tourism sector and the wider local economy. Inclusive growth, defined as economic expansion that is broad-based across sectors and inclusive of the majority of a country's labor force, coupled with equality of opportunity, aligns intrinsically with the core principles of CBT. This conceptual article explores the synergies between CBT and the pillars of inclusive growth: broad-based economic participation, social equity, and environmental sustainability. It develops a multi-dimensional framework illustrating how CBT, through mechanisms such as local ownership, participatory decision-making, and benefit-sharing, can generate tangible economic benefits (income, employment), social benefits (empowerment, cultural preservation, enhanced well-being), and environmental benefits (conservation, sustainable resource use). The paper also critically examines the significant challenges that can hinder this potential, including power imbalances, limited capacity, and market access barriers. Through illustrative case studies from Cambodia, Costa Rica, and Bhutan, the paper demonstrates the practical application and outcomes of CBT initiatives. The study concludes that for CBT to fully realize its role as a catalyst for inclusive growth, it requires a supportive ecosystem involving proactive government policies, private sector partnership, and continuous capacity building. By reframing CBT not merely as an alternative niche but as a foundational strategy for inclusive development, this paper contributes to the evolving discourse on innovative and responsible tourism futures.