PUBLIC POLICY AND SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN TURKEY

Abstract

Although tourism has been considered as an important activity for the well-being of the economies and state regulations on tourism have a considerable history in Turkey, the concept of sustainable tourism was first mentioned in the 8th Five- Year Development Plan (2001-2005). Until that time however, almost all shores, forests, natural attractions and high plateaus were announced as tourism areas. In this regard, a productive and rationale use of the natural resources and even protection of ecologically and biologically sensitive areas require a comprehensive determination of tourism policies and plans. The aim of the paper is to analyse state policies on sustainable tourism and discuss future plans and projects of the government in Turkey. Further, the study also aims to offer recommendations for policy makers in order to better manage the policies regarding sustainable tourism.