INCLUSIVE TOURISM IN NATURAL PROTECTED AREAS: CONCEPTUAL MODELS, REGULATORY FRAMEWORKS AND MANAGERIAL MECHANISMS FOR IMPLEMENTATION
Abstract
The article examines the conceptual foundations, regulatory frameworks, and managerial mechanisms for the development of inclusive tourism in natural protected areas. The relevance of the topic is substantiated in view of the growing importance of accessibility to natural recreational resources, international legal obligations, and the expansion of the tourism market for persons with disabilities. It is determined that contemporary approaches to the management of natural protected areas are gradually shifting from a predominantly conservation-oriented model toward an integrated concept that combines environmental protection, recreation, and social inclusion. Theoretical approaches to the interpretation of inclusive tourism are generalized, and the main categories of accessibility barriers are systematized, including physical, information and communication, transport, social, and regulatory-managerial barriers. Based on the analysis of contemporary international research, it is demonstrated that systemic managerial constraints create conditions for the reproduction of other barriers and hinder the development of an accessible environment. The study considers and compares the key models for implementing inclusive tourism in natural protected areas, including the universal design model, the stakeholder partnership model, the social inclusion tourism model, and the hybrid (adaptive) model. It is determined that the most effective approach involves integrating the principles of universal design, participatory planning, and social inclusion mechanisms while considering the specific characteristics of a given territory. Particular attention is paid to balancing accessibility requirements with the need to preserve natural ecosystems. The feasibility of applying functional zoning tools, international accessibility standards, digital technologies, and mechanisms of cross-sectoral cooperation is substantiated. The study concludes that the development of inclusive tourism requires a comprehensive approach combining infrastructure adaptation, regulatory support, staff training, and systematic monitoring. Prospects for further scientific research in this field are also identified
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