ტურიზმის ინდუსტრიის განვითარების სოციალურეკონომიკური და სივრცითი ასპექტები სამეგრელოს რეგიონში

The paper deals with the main characteristics of tourism sustainable development in
Georgia, with of Samegrelo region case study. Tourism and its development are the most
important component in the modern world, especially in the economies of the developing world.
This is the main reason why the interest about tourism development is growing fast and therefore
its actuality is very high. It is particularly relevant to assess the sustainability of tourism.
For the last two decades, tourism is considered as one of the priority fields Georgia’s
economy and this is due to several factors. First of all, the main factor is a variety of tourism
resources, ranging from the most beautiful and health-specific natural conditions to the most
interesting anthropogenic tourism resources.
The purpose of the work is to reveal the main trends that are in the direction of
development of the local economy. For this purpose there is identified the theoretical approaches
for local economic development and tourism. And also, there are the results of the research
conducted in Martvili and Tsalenjikha municipalities.
In the thesis I will discuss the main theories which are connected to tourism and economic
development, tourism and sustainability, regional tourism and the well-being of the local
population. In addition, based on the analysis of conducted research and the theories in academic
literature, I would like to emphasize the main trends, which are shown in parallel with the
growth of tourism in the country. The results of the survey will also help us to answer the main
question: How does tourism development affect the wellbeing of the local population?
Summary of theories and a research can help us to conclude that the development of
tourism in Samegrelo region did not bring significant benefits to local populations. We also see
that this is due to a variety of factors in which the role of both the state and the private sector is
greater. In addition, we will also see that the steps taken by the government in the direction of
tourism are less likely to respond to the principles of sustainable development.