Factors influencing sustainable development in Eco-tourism settlements: A comparative analysis

Abstract

This study examined the determinants of sustainable development within national parks and ecotourism settlements across both Tajik National Park and Fann Mountains areas in the Republic of Tajikistan, as well as Zaamin National Park and Hisar State Reserve in the Republic of Uzbekistan. Primary data were gathered from surveys conducted in four distinct settlements across these nations, and subsequent analyses employed descriptive statistics, factor analysis, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The levels of sustainable development varied among the four settlements. The following factors were the most important for sustainable development: active engagement from local authorities and the population, high levels of tourist satisfaction, and attractive sights. The findings of this study have important implications for policymakers and stakeholders involved in the development of national parks and ecotourism settlements in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. The findings suggest that the following strategies are most effective in promoting sustainable development: encouraging active engagement from local authorities and the population, providing high-quality services to tourists, and protecting the environment.