INTEGRATION OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PRINCIPLES INTO THE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT OF TOURIST DESTINATIONS: ANALYTICAL MODEL AND EVALUATION INDICATORS

Abstract

The article examines the issues of strategic management of sustainable tourism development in the context of increasing turbulence in the global and national socio-economic environment, increasing environmental and social challenges, as well as transformation processes associated with the restoration and long-term development of territories. It is substantiated that sustainable tourism development should be considered not as a set of isolated environmental or social initiatives, but as a holistic management concept integrated into the system of strategic planning, implementation and control of the development of tourist destinations. The paper focuses on the need to transition from a declarative interpretation of the principles of sustainable development to their practical operationalization in strategic tourism management. It is shown that the effectiveness of sustainable tourism development is determined by the ability of management systems to combine long-term orientation, integration of economic, social and environmental goals, adaptability to changes in the external environment and stakeholder orientation. Particular importance is attached to the coordination of strategic goals of tourism development with the interests of local communities, business, authorities and the requirements for the preservation of natural and cultural heritage. Special attention is paid to the problem of measurability of sustainable tourism development as a key prerequisite for increasing the transparency of management, strategic control and the validity of management decisions. The feasibility of forming a system of tourism-specific performance indicators that allow for a comprehensive assessment of the economic efficiency of tourism activities, the level of tourist load, environmental impact, quality of tourist experience and socio-economic benefits for local communities is substantiated. It is emphasized that the use of universal business metrics does not provide an adequate reflection of the real consequences of tourism development and requires adaptation to industry specifics. The article emphasizes that in conditions of crises, security risks and post-war recovery, strategic management of sustainable tourism development acquires particular importance as a tool for increasing the resilience of territories, restoring trust, activating investment processes and harmonizing local strategies with European and global development priorities. It is concluded that strategic management of sustainable tourism development forms a methodological basis for ensuring the long-term competitiveness of destinations, strengthening social cohesion, and achieving balanced development in the context of structural transformations.