DEVELOPMENT OF INCLUSIVE TOURISM IN THE LVIV REGION: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of the current state and trends in the development of inclusive tourism in the Lviv region. Based on the results of the research, the theoretical and methodological foundations of inclusive tourism have been systematized, its essence, main goals, principles, tasks, and social value have been clarified. It has been established that inclusive tourism is a modern approach to organizing travel, based on the principles of accessibility, equality, and universal design, and plays an important role in ensuring the rights and freedoms of people with limited mobility. The specifics of forming accessible tourist infrastructure have been examined, revealing that the key problems in Ukraine and the Lviv region are related to the uneven development of infrastructure, insufficient funding, low levels of staff training, and a lack of informational accessibility. The activities of the Tourism and Resorts Department of the Lviv Regional State Administration in the context of developing inclusive tourism have been analyzed. The tourism and recreational potential of the Lviv region has been studied, showing significant opportunities for adaptation to the needs of people with disabilities: diverse cultural and historical resources, natural sites, and the presence of recreational areas. At the same time, key challenges have been identified: insufficient adaptation of infrastructure, limited accessibility of transport, the absence of a unified digital platform of accessible locations, low levels of cross-sectoral cooperation, and the need for professional development of staff. A comprehensive system of practical recommendations has been proposed for improving inclusive tourism infrastructure and developing modern barrier-free services in the Lviv region. Suggestions have been developed regarding the adaptation of the transport system, staff training, the creation of specialized guided tour programs, and the development of rehabilitation and tourism practices for military personnel, veterans, and people with disabilities. Special attention is given to the need for grant programs and incentives for businesses to participate in forming a barrier-free tourism environment.