Social Issues of Tourism in the Province of Berkane (Morocco)

The province of Berkane (North-East of Morocco) presents a strategic geographical position, a favorable climate and a multitude of natural structures (geological, geomorphological, geographical, biological, etc.) offering attractive landscapes, alongside a cultural heritage as rich as it is diverse. Under the impetus of local communities and the state's efforts since the beginning of the century, the province has the necessary infrastructure for the development of several economic sectors, including tourism. Nevertheless, the development of tourism entails various economic, environmental and social issues.

Similar to the need for a supportive social framework for tourism development, the expansion of this sector, especially mass tourism, can have several negative effects on the host society.

After the presentation of the province's general framework and tourism data, this work will present the results of a questionnaire-based field survey, which aims to analyze the social issues of tourism in the province. This helps to determine the relationship of local residents with the tourism industry, and with the regional tourism infrastructure, and finally the impact of tourism on the population of the province.