Extending tourism competitiveness to human development. (January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Croes, Robertico; Ridderstaat, Jorge; Shapoval, Valeriya
• Is Part Of: Annals of tourism research. Volume 80(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-01
• Subjects: Tourism competitiveness -- Human development -- Capabilities -- South America; Tourism -- Periodicals
• DOI: 10.1016/j.annals.2019.102825
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0160-7383

Abstract

Abstract: This study presents the Tourism Competitiveness Theory Hypothesis, anchored on a dynamic framework, and unifying the competitiveness theory with human development. The hypothesis rests on the recursive nature between tourism competitiveness and human development. The relationship was tested through a mixed-effect regression model in ten South American countries. The results suggest mutual reinforcement links mediated by the human development dimensions, especially health. The study also designed a typology model identifying four groups of countries that revealed distinct, non-linear behavioral patterns. Theoretical and managerial implications centered on the relevance of resource use, public allocation choices toward human development sectors, and the required sequencing to promote the mutual reinforcement nature embedded in the Tourism Competitiveness Theory Hypothesis. Highlights: Tourism competitiveness is related to human development. This relationship undergirds the Tourism Competitiveness Theory Hypothesis (TCTH). Human development significantly affects tourism competitiveness. Effects of tourism competitiveness on human development are ambiguous.