SUSTAINABLE TRANSFORMATION OF RURAL COMMUNITIES THROUGH THE DEVELOPMENT OF A RURAL TOURISM PRODUCT

This scientific paper examines the role of developing a rural tourism product as a driver of the sustainable transformation of rural communities. Building on contemporary approaches to rural development, the analysis explores how rural tourism contributes to the diversification of economic activities, the preservation of natural and cultural resources, and the improvement of residents’ quality of life. The development of an authentic tourism product is considered a mechanism that activates local potentials, encourages entrepreneurship, and strengthens community identity. The paper emphasizes the economic, social, and environmental effects of rural tourism through the lens of sustainability, as well as the importance of integrated planning and the participation of local stakeholders in decision-making processes. Special attention is devoted to a conceptual model that explains the key mechanisms of transformation and their impact on the long-term revitalization of rural areas.

KEYWORDS / KLJUČNE REČI: 

Rural development, rural tourism, tourism product, sustainability, local community, transformation

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT / PROJEKAT:

Paper is a part of research financed by the MSTDI RS, agreed in decision no. 451-03-136/2025-03/200009 from 4.2.2025.

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