kathimerini.gr
Greece Leads Europe in Regional Tourism, Raising Concerns about Sustainability
A new study by the University of Aegean finds that Greece leads Europe in regional tourism, with the Southern Aegean and Ionian Islands ranking first and second, respectively, based on an index measuring six variables, including bed capacity and employment in hospitality; this intense touristification, while initially economically beneficial, presents long-term risks.
- What are the immediate economic and social consequences of Greece's high level of tourism development?
- A new study by the University of Aegean's Labor Geography Laboratory reveals that Greece leads Europe in tourism, with almost all its regions experiencing high levels of tourism development, exceeding even popular destinations like the Southern Aegean and Ionian islands. This surpasses other European countries in the extent of regional tourism.
- How does the study's index measure 'touristification', and what are the key factors contributing to Greece's high ranking?
- The study utilized a newly developed index, based on six variables including bed capacity, arrivals per capita, and employment dependency on hospitality, to measure the degree of "touristification." Greece dominated, holding the top two spots (Southern Aegean and Ionian Islands) in 2022, mirroring its 2009 rankings but with increased intensity.
- What are the long-term risks and sustainable development strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of intense tourism in Greece?
- The intense "touristification" in Greece, while economically impactful in the short-term, demonstrates negative long-term consequences. The study shows that while tourism boosts certain businesses, regional GDP decreases, employment conditions worsen across sectors, and other productive sectors shrink, creating an overreliance on tourism and vulnerability to external shocks like climate change.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing is predominantly negative, emphasizing the detrimental effects of overtourism. The headline (not provided but inferred from the text) and the repeated use of phrases like "overtourism," "excessive dependence," and "negative impacts" shape the narrative towards a critical perspective. While data is presented, the selection and emphasis contribute to a negative overall impression.
Language Bias
The language used leans towards negative connotations. Words like "overtourism," "excessive dependence," "shrunk," "degraded," and "undermining" are loaded terms that carry negative implications. More neutral alternatives could include 'high tourism levels,' 'significant reliance,' 'decreased,' 'impacted,' and 'affecting.' The repeated use of such language reinforces the negative framing.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the negative impacts of overtourism in Greece, potentially omitting positive aspects or successful sustainable tourism initiatives. While acknowledging the economic reliance on tourism, it doesn't extensively explore alternative economic models or successful examples of diversification away from tourism. The article also doesn't mention the potential benefits of tourism for local communities, such as job creation or infrastructure improvements, beyond the negative impacts highlighted.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy between 'tourism' and 'overtourism' without fully exploring the nuances in between. It implies that any level of tourism beyond a certain unspecified point is inherently negative, neglecting the possibility of managing tourism sustainably.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the negative impacts of overtourism on Greek regions, leading to environmental degradation, strained resources, and decreased quality of life for residents. The intense focus on tourism overshadows other economic sectors, resulting in economic instability and a decline in regional GDP. This unsustainable model of development negatively impacts the well-being and livability of communities.