PROTECTED PARKS AS A DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL: THE CASE OF BLIDINJE NATURE PARK

Marija Vukoja
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Marija Vukoja: Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management, University in Rijeka, Croatia.

UTMS Journal of Economics, 2026, vol. 17, issue 1, 78-89

Abstract: Protected parks are key resources for biodiversity conservation as well as potential drivers of local and regional development. Despite their high natural and cultural value, many protected areas, such as the Blidinje Nature Park, face underutilization in terms of sustainable tourism, education, and local development. Underutilization is manifested through a lack of strategic planning, weak infrastructure, limited tourism offer, and insufficient connection with the local community. The aim of this scientific paper is to analyze the current level of utilization of the Blidinje Nature Park, identify key obstacles and potentials, and propose a development scenario for the next 10 years. The paper is based on a theoretical review of literature in the fields of protected area management, sustainable tourism, and local development, as well as on a model analysis using SWOT and PESTEL frameworks adapted to the Blidinje context. The results indicate significant development potential based on natural resources, cultural heritage, and growing interest in sustainable tourism, but also highlight the need for strategic coordination, infrastructure investments, local community education, and strengthened institutional support. The paper emphasizes that sustainable development of Blidinje in the next 10 years requires an integrated approach combining nature protection, tourism development, and community involvement.

Keywords: protected parks; Blidinje Nature Park; sustainable tourism; local development; underutilization; development strategy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: L83 Q26 Q56 R58 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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