Understanding tourism as a problem on the public agenda in tourism destinations: consequences, intensity and urgency

Abstract

Tourism is at the centre of public debate due to the various protests by residents against the hegemonic model of tourism development. Deepening the definition of tourism as a problem among the local population is fundamental for the design of tourism policies focused on sustainability. The aim of this study is twofold. On the one hand, it aims to investigate the formation of the public agenda on tourism, identifying the factors that contribute to the understanding of tourism as a problem: consequences, intensity and urgency. On the other hand, it aims to reveal the diversity of opinions on tourism among residents, taking these factors into account. The study was conducted in the city of Madrid through a survey. A total of 439 valid responses were obtained. The study uses cluster analysis to identify five groups of residents: detractors, disappointed, supporters ambivalent and prudent supporters. The article is theoretically innovative in its contribution to the analysis of the formation of the public agenda in tourism, a subject little explored in tourism literature. It also makes essential practical contributions by demonstrating the variety of opinions among residents and the need to focus public policies on their needs and interests.