Responsible tourism: the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of empowering children

Children empowerment should be a core component of any responsible tourism initiatives and their involvement and support is required to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Drawing on a theory adaptation research approach, this study proposes a framework for children's empowerment for responsible and sustainable tourism, inside and outside of the family context. The study sought to answer two key questions: Why children should be engaged in responsible tourism? How should children be engaged in responsible tourism? In addressing these key questions, the study developed a Future Responsible Tourist Capital Development (FRTCD) framework that advises on a prospective process of developing and nurturing children to have the essential skills, education and experience required for the responsible and sustainable development of the tourism industry. The findings of this study propose a new perspective on children empowerment inside and outside of the family context, and highlight the significance of children as sustainability thinkers, actioners, and transformers. Overall, the study contributes to the growing research on empowerment in sustainability discourse in general and children's empowerment in particular.