A conceptual justification and a strategy to advance community-based tourism development

Inequality is growing across the globe. Tourism, as a major global sector with exceptional historical potential for growth and reach, is capable of substantially contributing to the fight against inequality. However, the current system is not doing so. This article, therefore, argues that community-based tourism (CBT) could equally contribute to reducing inequality and complement efforts towards redistribution. Based on extant literature and documents, this article aims to contribute knowledge on the relationship between tourism and development by justifying the CBT approach as one that favours redistribution. The article makes recommendations in support of the shift towards CBT principles.