THE ROLE OF LOCAL PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND DIGITALIZATION ON SUSTAINABILITY FROM A TOURISM 5.0 PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

The success of the tourism industry, which plays a significant role in the economic development of many countries globally, is paralleled by the sustainable tourism approach. Creating a balance between the positive and negative impacts of tourism and achieving sustainability requires the active participation of stakeholders. Among these stakeholders, the participation of local people in tourism activities takes the form of planning, management, and economic gain. With the emergence of new technologies, the tourism industry, like other industries, has undergone a digital transformation. The application of Industry 5.0 to Tourism 5.0 has led to an approach prioritizing human-centered, equitable, peaceful, sustainable, accessible, and resilient values. This study examines the past and present status of local people's participation in the sustainable tourism development process within a theoretical framework. The study employed document analysis using qualitative approaches, analyzing secondary sources, and compiling a compilation. Based on these analyses, a digital participation cycle model was developed that explains access, participation, and transformative impact. In light of the findings, it is envisaged that increasing the quality of life and social value for all participants, stakeholders, local people and visitors, creating positive effects and ensuring cooperation among all stakeholders will be achieved through information and communication technologies, even though there may be some shortcomings.