Resilience and Recovery: Public Policy and Development in Sustainable Tourism for Peru and International Best Practices in the Context of Sdgs

Abstract

Introduction: Tourism, a significant employment sector, faced substantial setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to drastic job losses and economic challenges globally. Objectives: This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of public tourism policies in promoting sustainable development, particularly in the context of post-pandemic recovery, by comparing Peru's strategies with international best practices. Theoretical Framework: Based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on policies that support economic, social, and environmental sustainability in the tourism sector. Method: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, using qualitative analysis to compare approaches from countries like France, Mexico, Spain, China, and the Caribbean with Peru’s strategies. Sources included academic articles, government reports, and data from international organizations. Results and Discussion: Results indicate that countries with robust, inclusive, and environmentally focused policies, such as those in China and the Caribbean, have shown resilience and sustainable growth. In contrast, Peru’s tourism sector, characterized by high informality and limited integration of marginalized voices, faces significant challenges in achieving sustainable development. The recognition of tourist destinations in Cusco with the Safe Travels seal marks progress, yet more comprehensive and inclusive policies are needed. Research Implications: Peru can benefit from adopting best practices from other countries, such as effective governance, green finance, and inclusive policy-making, to address the unique challenges of informality and environmental sustainability. Originality/Value: This study provides a comparative analysis of tourism policies in the context of the SDGs, offering insights for policymakers in Peru to enhance the resilience and sustainability of the tourism sector.