Factors influencing collaborative governance in the tourism sector: Stakeholder reflections

Abstract

This study investigated the factors influencing collaborative governance between the public and private sectors in tourism. Employing an explorative qualitative research approach, in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with stakeholders in the tourism sector to explore participants’ experiences and insights regarding the barriers to effective collective governance. The data were analysed thematically to extract key concepts aligned with the study objectives. The findings suggest that lack of transformation in tourism and hospitality, corrupt practices, legal and regulatory bottlenecks, divergent interests, and a lack of trust among stakeholders inhibit effective collaborative governance in the tourism industry. The study makes a modest contribution to the discourse surrounding collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors of tourism within emerging economy contexts.