Abstract

BRENNER, Ludger  and  SAN GERMAN, Stephanie. Local governance and ecotourism in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, Mexico. Alteridades [online]. 2012, vol.22, n.44, pp.131-146. ISSN 2448-850X.

Drawing on analytical concepts of governance and ecotourism, this paper highlights the impacts of nature-based tourism promotion on the social organization of a rural community located within one of Mexico's most important Protected Areas. Based on extensive in-depth interviews carried out in ejido El Rosario (state of Michoacán), we analyze the complex governance of local and external actors providing tourist services. We conclude that the promotion of tourism by governmental and non-governmental institutions has exacerbated existent social disparities and created serious conflicts within the community.

Keywords : Protected Natural Areas; tourism promotion; social inequalities.