COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM AS A PATHWAY TO SUSTAINABLE RURAL DEVELOPMENT IN UZBEKISTAN: CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITIES, AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS

Abstract:

Community-Based Tourism (CBT) is increasingly recognized as a sustainable alternative to mass tourism, particularly in rural regions where economic opportunities are limited and cultural and environmental resources are vulnerable. In Uzbekistan, recent tourism reforms and a growing emphasis on rural development have created opportunities for CBT initiatives, although empirical evidence on their effectiveness remains scarce (Abdulkhaeva, 2025; Agzamova, 2025). This study investigates CBT as a pathway to sustainable rural development, focusing on its economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Data were collected through surveys, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis involving local residents, community leaders, and tourism stakeholders. The findings indicate that CBT supports income diversification, job creation, community engagement, and the preservation of cultural and natural heritage. Key challenges include inadequate infrastructure, limited managerial and marketing capacity, restricted financial access, and weak institutional support. Nonetheless, opportunities exist to strengthen CBT through capacity-building programs, improved governance, partnerships with non-governmental organizations, and digital marketing strategies. The study provides practical insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to promote sustainable rural development in Uzbekistan..