Power and governance: the development of a tourist route in Brazil

Governance structures in tourism destinations are often influenced by power dynamics. This research explores the interplay of power dynamics in shaping the governance during the inception of a tourist route – a unique format of tourism that brings together diverse stakeholders from across the Southern Region of Brazil. The focus of this research is to examine the planning, design, and implementation processes of the “Rota dos Capitéis”, an initiative currently unfolding across ten cities in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. The qualitative approach employed interviews, non-participant observation, and document analysis. The findings reveal a pervasive exercise of power across all layers of the route planning process, hinting at the potential impact of these power dynamics on governance arrangements and the development process. This study contributes to the debates related to power dynamics and tourism development, providing a framework for a more democratic and participatory governance structure embracing local stakeholders.