NCS Thong Khon bảo vệ luận án tiến sĩ
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS OF THE PH.D DISSERTATION
Topic of dissertation: The Development of Ecotourism in Cambodia
Specialization : Economic management (Management of Tourism Economic )
PhD candidate: THONG KHON
Supervisors : 1. Asso.Prof. Dr TRAN THO DAT 2. Asso.Prof. Dr NGUYEN VAN MANH
The followings are considered to be the findings of the PhD dissertation:
1. A critical review of literature on theory of tourism and ecotourism
A comprehensive and contextualized concept of ecotourism incorporating fundamental elements occurring within ecotourism worldwide and taking into account of Cambodian experiences has been recommended. These elements require that ecotourism should involve the natural and environmental, allow for ecological and cultural sustainability; provide for education and interpretation; and generate local and regional benefits. Ecotourism, known as ecological + tourism, involves responsible travel to ecological destinations that contribute to the environment conservation and the well-being of local people improvement. The dissertation also indicates six criteria for ecotourism, namely: 1) primarily focuses on natural environment as the attraction; 2) minimizes negative impact; 3) builds environmental and cultural awareness; 4) promotes conservation; 5) provides financial benefits for local people; and 6) encourages community empowerment through participations.
2. A comprehensive analysis of ecotourism in Cambodia
The dissertation shows that tourism sector has been an important and very dynamic engine of growth and generator of foreign exchange revenues since mid-1990s. It is worthwhile to note that in the past decade Cambodia witnessed two digit growth rates, making tourism one of the country’s strongest growth sectors. The SWOT analysis of ecotourism development in Cambodia was also undertaken and the key message is Cambodia is well-suited for the implementation of ecotourism. Case studies of Peam Krasoap and Chi Phat Community based Ecotourism indicate an overall portrait of ecotourism’s current capacity to reach its primary objectives in the south-western province of Koh Kong and suggest that ecotourism success depends on the quality of the relationships developed between three major elements: local communities-tourism-protected area. The dissertation also outlines several positive aspects linked to the utilization of ecotourism as a development tool in Peam Krasop and explains that the success of Chi Phat case is more significant with a rapid development growth of ecotourism project during the first year after launching date.
3. Policy Recommendation
A mixed model for ecotourism development in Cambodia - an integrated approach has been recommended. A systematic mechanism that encompasses involvements and contributions from a wider range of stakeholders is recommended to guarantee a broader development and comprehensive, sustainable and responsible growth. The ecotourism development in Cambodia should be based on participatory approaches by promoting and strengthening the Public-Private-People-Partnership (4Ps). Thus, all ecotourism activity should be controlled and managed by a National Ecotourism Committee that is comprised of local community representatives as well as representatives of Ministry of tourism, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Agriculture, Fishes and Forestry, Ministry of Rural Development, Council for the development of Cambodia (CDC) and/or NGOs, Tourism Private Sector and financial institutions.
The dissertation and its summary: see in the attach file.
