Contributions of the Bagagem Project to brazilian Community Based Tourism

Abstract

Projeto Bagagem, is a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) that has been promoting Brazilian community-based tourism (CBT) since 2002. Its legacy in the Brazilian CBT sector lies in highlighting activities that emphasize the lifestyles of traditional communities, cultural exchange, and shared community management. After 20 years, we see a positive result in impact, as the organization has developed strategies with the tourism industry to ensure the visibility of local actors and community entities. This descriptive study reports on the experiences of Projeto Bagagem, which, through initiatives such as collaborations, partnerships, the production of technical and scientific material, planning and organizing in destinations, among other involvements, has contributed to the strengthening of community-based tourism in Brazil. These contributions have been systematized through document analyses, with all records available on Projeto Bagagem's YouTube channel and the ISSUI platform. As a co-creator of the Brazilian Network of Solidarity and Community-Based Tourism – TURISOL, Projeto Bagagem participated in international events representing Brazilian CBT. The NGO was a strategic partner of the Global Community-Based Tourism Network from 2021 to 2023. The staff, including its board of directors, conducted the first Brazilian mapping of CBT initiatives, which has been referenced in technical and scientific works, consulted by public, private, and third-sector entities, and sought after by CBT agencies at both national and international levels. Its actions have been coordinated with the University of São Paulo (USP), the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), the State University of Amazonas (UEA), amongst others. The organization has set benchmarks, prioritized governance in destinations, and highlighted the importance of a federal public policy such as the proposal of 13 strategies for CBT, presented to the federal government.