Participatory governance in religious tourism in Salvador

Abstract

Keywords | Religious tourism, participatory governance, sustainable development, Salvador, tourism pastoral

Objectives | a) Analyze the experience of the Archdiocesan Tourism Pastoral (PASTUR) of Salvador in promoting religious tourism; b) Evaluate the role of participatory governance in the management of religious tourism in Salvador; and c) Identify the main actions and partnerships developed by PASTUR to strengthen religious tourism in the region.

Methodology | The research consisted of a qualitative analysis of the experience of the Archdiocesan Tourism Pastoral of Salvador, using primary sources such as provided texts on the pastoral's actions in religious tourism in the region. Additionally, secondary sources such as academic articles, government reports, and news related to the topic were consulted. Data analysis was conducted by identifying recurring themes and developing analytical categories for information systematization.

Main Results and Contributions | 1) The Archdiocesan Tourism Pastoral of Salvador has played a fundamental role in promoting religious tourism in the region, articulating various local institutions and actors; 2) Participatory governance has proven to be effective in managing religious tourism in Salvador, allowing the integration of different interests and actions towards sustainable development; 3) The main actions of PASTUR include the creation of tourist routes, training of local agents, and promotion of partnerships with the government and other civil society institutions; and 4) The results of religious tourism promoted by PASTUR include positive social impacts such as job creation, cultural and historical heritage valorization, and social inclusion of local communities.

Limitations | 1) The research relied on limited secondary sources, which may have influenced the depth of the analysis; 2) The analysis focused mainly on the experience of the Archdiocesan Tourism Pastoral of Salvador, without considering other perspectives or case studies; and 3) Some aspects of participatory governance in religious tourism may not have been comprehensively addressed due to information limitations.

Conclusions | The study highlights the importance of participatory governance in religious tourism in Salvador, emphasizing the role of the Archdiocesan Tourism Pastoral in promoting sustainable development in the region. Although there are challenges and limitations to be addressed, such as the need to enhance dialogue and cooperation among various stakeholders, the research points to the existence of best practices and opportunities for improvement in the management of religious tourism in Salvador and other tourist destinations. It is believed that with the engagement and collaboration of all involved, it will be possible to build a more inclusive, sustainable, and responsible tourism that effectively contributes to the human and social development of local communities.