Tourism Can Benefit Disadvantaged Neighbourhoods

The phenomenon of 'slum tourism' has long been debated internationally. At its worst, it can reduce residents to attractions and guide visitors through neighbourhoods that are marketed as exotic or dangerous. At its best, however, local communities can take ownership of stigmatising narratives and showcase their neighbourhoods on their own terms.

What does this kind of tourism look like in Sweden? Does it exist?

'Yes, it does, but traditional tourism organisations are often absent. Instead, many initiatives are run by cultural departments, youth and leisure organisations, local businesses, or individuals who are passionate about the area. We have seen interesting examples where young people from the neighbourhood act as guides. Other successful initiatives appeal to both residents and visitors and include art walks, food experiences, themed playgrounds and local festivals," says Ola Thufvesson.

Disadvantaged neighbourhoods are often characterised by physical and social isolation, and are primarily associated with crime, insecurity, and social challenges. Researchers argue that visitors from outside the area can help to broaden perceptions of these neighbourhoods by highlighting the existing resources, activities and stories. When people from other parts of a city visit, new encounters take place, providing a better understanding of what these neighbourhoods are really like beyond the headlines. However, the challenge is that very few outsiders actually visit these neighbourhoods.

'We are not saying that tourism solves structural problems, but it can complement a stigmatising narrative with other stories.' Traditionally, tourists are drawn to city centres, natural attractions and well-known destinations. Location plays a major role in whether a tourism initiative succeeds. Neighbourhoods that are integrated into the urban fabric generally have better prospects of attracting visitors than those that are geographically isolated by major roads or situated far from the city centre," says Cecilia Cassinger.

The researchers are particularly interested in the visitor economy because of its expertise in creating positive narratives about places.

'Our study suggests that this expertise could also be relevant in efforts related to social sustainability, urban development, and counteracting territorial stigma,' says Ola Thufvesson. We believe that the knowledge and skills of the visitor economy could be used much more extensively in this work," says Ola Thufvesson.

What do residents think?

"The residents we spoke with often appreciate initiatives that contribute to a more nuanced image of the neighbourhood. After decades of negative headlines, there is also a desire to showcase the positive aspects of everyday life and local engagement," concludes Cecilia Cassinger.