Designing a Planning and Development Model for Ecotourism in the Context of Economic Security in the Border Regions of Ardabil Province

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Master of Tourism, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.

2 Assistant Professor of Department of Public Administration and Tourism, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.

Abstract

Context and Purpose: In recent years, ecotourism has emerged as a practical tool for sustainable development in border regions, aiming to promote economic empowerment and conserve natural resources. Ardabil Province, with its unique climatic and cultural features, holds significant potential for applying this model. This study aims to design a comprehensive model for ecotourism development with a focus on enhancing economic security in Ardabil’s border areas.
Design/methodology/approach: The research followed a sequential exploratory mixed-methods design. In the qualitative phase, grounded theory was used to identify key components. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 22 experts and analyzed using ATLAS.ti 24. In the quantitative phase, a questionnaire based on the qualitative findings was distributed among 177 participants, and data were analyzed using Spearman’s correlation coefficient in SPSS 26.
Findings: The results showed that variables such as education and capacity building, marketing, branding, technology and innovation, natural and cultural assets, and institutional networking had strong, significant correlations with enhanced economic security. In contrast, local participation and governance showed the weakest relationship.
Conclusion: The conceptual model presents an integrated framework showing the interaction of causal, contextual, and intervening factors with strategies and outcomes. This model can effectively guide policymaking in border regions. It highlights that improving economic security requires a systemic approach, stronger soft capacities, and participatory methods. Additionally, enhancing regional branding, investing in training, and linking local producers to the tourism value chain are key to achieving sustainable development.
Originality/value: By combining grounded theory with statistical analysis, this study offers a localized, multi-dimensional model of the ecotourism–economic security relationship in border regions, adaptable at national and international levels.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Tourism Planning and Development
Volume 14, Issue 54
September 2025
Pages 203-235

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