Exploring local community participation in destination governance 199 for sustainable development: The case of Dubrovnik in the Mediterranean area.

Destination governance has evolved into a complex arena, shaped by the intricate interplay of various factors within the tourism industry and its impact on local communities. Unfortunately, conventional governance models have often neglected the central role of residents, hampering the achievement of sustainable and inclusive tourism development. This study aims to explore the importance of local community engagement in destination governance and its implications for more effective and sustainable destination management. Through a case study, the research examines the changing paradigms of destination governance, the obstacles and opportunities associated with local community participation and the potential of promoting public-private-people partnerships (4Ps) to strengthen governance frameworks. By shedding light on these issues, the study seeks to inform stakeholders on the need to integrate residents' perspectives into governance processes and promote collaborative approaches to effectively navigate the complexities of contemporary tourism.