Sustainable development of Socotra Archipelago. Application and reflexivity

Abstract

AbstractWhen talking about developing tourism in places where nature has been untouched, strong criticism has emerged, especially from naturalists, ecologists, and environmentalists. These voices advocating for ‘keeping untouched places untouched’ often reach many people, who then echo that opinion without necessarily knowing the territory's situation. This paper reflects the sustainable development theory and constitutes a reflective piece of writing about tourism development in the Socotra Archipelago, a place rich in biodiversity and human traditions, but geographically remote. Socotra Island, although relatively unknown, has received a great deal of attention from natural science researchers who have focused on understanding the many endemic species found on the island. However, information about Indigenous Socotri, their behaviors, traditions, and cultures—all components of a successful cultural tourism destination—is scarce. In this paper, the author reflects on current situation on the island and possibilities for future generations. Tourism may help create future possibilities for people from the island by considering a sustainable development theory.