Organization and Women´s Empowerment in Community Rural Tourism in the Calakmul Ecotourism Network, Campeche, Mexico

Abstract

This article examines the inclusive models of Community Rural Tourism (CRT) and the Multifactorial Model for Empowerment (MME) in the community organizations of the Calakmul Ecotourism Network (REC), in Campeche, as a proposal for boosting the economy of rural communities and human development. It explores the structure of the groups, the management of tourist activity and the work of women. Qualitative methodological tools were used, such as group interviews, in-depth interviews and participant observation. It was observed that the REC benefited the women’s organization, promoted productive activities such as ecotourism, activated the economy, promoted groups at the local and regional level, encouraged formal and informal education processes, and enabled women to manage their time, relate to other people beyond their community, gain confidence and security and display their traditional knowledge. However, it was observed that the REC does not operate with a gender perspective, that there are economic and personal conflicts, and that its work enjoys scant recognition from the municipality. Likewise, ecotourism activities in the region have been stymied by the lack of interest of local authorities in having men’s and women’s groups manage their own resources.