The Regional Polarization of Tourism's Contribution to Economic Growth in Peru: Alternative Solutions

Abstract

Peru is characterized by high poverty levels. Serious problems of child malnutrition and illiteracy are prevalent and its economy centres on the primary sector across a large swathe of its territory. The major socio-economic inequality undermines social cohesion in the country and, therefore, increases the risk of social tension. However, Peru has significant and diverse resources which, if managed in accordance with World Tourism Organization's sustainable tourism guidelines, could promote development through better distribution of income and help to eliminate poverty. The promotion of sustainable tourism could increase social cohesion and lessen social tension. Hence, this research identifies the regional inequalities in Peru's tourism activity and suggests measures for promoting the most disadvantaged areas. The methodology used is based on the concept of polarization traditionally applied to income distribution studies. The data used come primarily from Peru's National Institute of Statistics and Information Technology (INEI).