Analysis of ecotourism sustainability at Aksu-Zhabagly nature reserve in the Western Tien Shan mountains
Akbar I. Aliyeva Z.N. Tazhe kova A.D. Myrzaliyeva Z.K.
2025North Caucasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, State Technological University
Sustainable Development of Mountain Territories
2025#17Issue 1362 - 378 pp.
Introduction. To assess the sustainability of tourism in Kazakhstan’s protected areas, this study focuses on the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve in the Western Tien Shan mountains and explores how neighboring communities engage in ecotourism and benefit from its development. It is shown that previous international research mainly concentrates on ecological, social, and economic aspects of tourism sustainability, often overlooking the relevance and empowerment of local communities. Given the lack of similar studies in Kazakhstan and Central Asia, this research provides a novel and context-specific perspective. Methods. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. A total of 145 residents from Zhabagly and Abaiyl settlements were surveyed using a structured questionnaire based on a 5-point Likert scale. In parallel, interviews were conducted with a tourism researcher and a reserve administrator to assess the extent of local community empowerment in tourism planning and participation. Results. The findings revealed a weak connection between the communities and ecotourism, with only 10.2% of Zhabagly and 3.6% of Abaiyl residents involved in tourism activities. Despite recognizing tourism as a promising industry, local involvement remains low due to geographic distance, limited access to tourism infrastructure, and insufficient inclusion in decision-making processes. Conclusions. It is proposed that enhancing the sustainability of ecotourism requires increasing local participation through empowerment, education, and institutional support. A strategic shift toward inclusive planning can elevate community engagement and distribute ecotourism benefits more equitably, thereby fostering long-term socio-economic and environmental resilience.
Aksu-Zhabagly , Community Empowerment , Kazakhstan , Nature Reserve , Sustainable Ecotourism , Tien Shan Mountains
Text of the article Перейти на текст статьи
Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
South Kazakhstan Pedagogical University named after Ozbekali Zhanibekov, Shymkent, Kazakhstan
Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
South Kazakhstan Pedagogical University named after Ozbekali Zhanibekov
10 лет помогаем публиковать статьи Международный издатель
Книга Публикация научной статьи Волощук 2026 Book Publication of a scientific article 2026