Cultural Heritage Protection Laws: Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainable Tourism (Original)

Abstract

Cultural heritage management, in relation to sustainable tourism, faces challenges and presents opportunities for sustainable development. This study aimed to examine the challenges and opportunities that cultural heritage protection laws generate in the sustainable development of tourism, identifying best practices and areas for improvement. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed to address perceptions and knowledge of various demographic groups regarding the existing legal framework. The findings indicate that the perception of the effectiveness of protection laws is not homogeneous, with 53.6% of participants recognizing a positive impact, while 26.8% believe they do not contribute to sustainable tourism. Furthermore, a correlation was evidenced between knowledge of the laws and their relationship with tourism and cultural awareness. The integration of education and community participation is essential to improve the effectiveness of the laws and empower local communities. This will facilitate sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and residents. Strengthening the legal framework through its application and integration into tourism development policies is fundamental to fostering cultural awareness and appreciation in the context of tourism.