CREATING A STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT MECHANISM FORCOMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM IN AZERBAIJAN: BOTTOM-UPAPPROACH IN ACTION

Community-based Tourism (CBT) is a powerful model for promoting sustainable tourism, local engagement, and cultural preservation.However, within the prevailing neoliberal framework, even alternative tourism models like CBT are often constrained by market-driven priorities that perpetuate inequalities and limit the equitable distribution of benefits.Azerbaijan is a historically multicultural country where diverse ethnic minorities have coexisted for centuries, contributing to the nation's rich cultural fabric.This study aims to explore the feasibility of establishing a strategic development framework for CBT using a bottom-up approach in Azerbaijan.Through qualitative research, specifically focus group interviews with tourism experts and stakeholders, the study identifies the primary challenges to the successful implementation of CBT in the region.The challenges identified include insufficient infrastructure, a lack of community awareness, limited support from governmental and institutional bodies, along with limited community participation, unequal distribution of benefits, and conflicts over resource management.The research reveals that adopting a CBT approach could significantly enhance rural tourism development, promote socio-economic equity, and contribute to the country's sustainable tourism goals.The findings highlight the importance of policy innovation, capacity building, and the active involvement of multiple stakeholders to ensure the long-term success of CBT initiatives.The proposed development mechanism aligns with international frameworks, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the guidelines of the UNWTO, to position Azerbaijan as a potential leader for community-led tourism in the region.