APPLICATION OF THE TOURISM REGIONALIZATION PROGRAM IN A REGIONAL GOVERNANCE ENTITY IN THE STATE OF RIO GRANDE DO SUL, BRAZIL

ABSTRACT:

This study aims to analyze the mechanisms tourist governance of the Regional Tourism Forum, located in the Rio Grande do Sul Central Region, Brazil. The study focuses on a Regional Governance entity created through the National Tourism Plan (PNT) and the Tourism Regionalization Program (PRT), and adds the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul to the Brazilian Tourism Map proposed by the Ministry of Tourism. A qualitative and descriptive case study was conducted. A semi-structured interview script was used, based on the theoretical model proposed by Xavier (2016). This model is organized into six categories: historical and cultural context (1); formalization and structure, norms and rules (2); interaction between actors and use of local resources (3); power, trust, conflict and interests (4); transparency and accountability (5); and Forms of Network Governance (6). Three coordinators of the Regional Tourism Forum were interviewed between 2011 and 2018. The data were analyzed using the methodology of content analysis. The results showed the lack of internal bylaws and Regional Tourism Plan. This makes it difficult to obtain financial resources to develop efficient practices in the region, and to elaborate joint practices of tourism regional development. It is therefore suggested that a Regional Plan and internal bylaws be created, as this would enable formalization and cooperation in the Forum.

KEYWORDS:
Governance; Destination governance; Regionalization; Regional Governance Instance; Regional Tourism Forum