In 2017, our symposium explored the various facets of tourism and the resilience of tourist destinations. Tourism, as a vector of globalization, gave rise to a multitude of uses and practices while also eliciting issues such as sex tourism. Yet, it also played a crucial role in the reconstruction of territories after tragic events or difficult situations.
Tourist destinations faced numerous potential risks, whether related to violence, natural disasters, or sociopolitical changes induced by globalization. The resilience of these destinations, their ability to renew and adapt, varied depending on various factors such as the type of country or tourism.
We examined the behaviors of destinations in response to these risks as well as the governance strategies implemented in times of crisis. We also looked into the role of social representations in the perception of destinations affected by crises and the concrete actions envisaged to develop their resilience.
The concept of resilience, stemming from various disciplines such as physics and psychology, was at the heart of our discussions. We explored how this concept could be applied in the field of tourism, drawing on case studies such as Haiti and Phuket, and integrating models of circular tourism development.
This symposium provided a platform for exchange and reflection on the challenges faced by tourist destinations worldwide, as well as on ways to strengthen their resilience in the face of crises and changes.