A qualitative study on the effects of crime, safety and security on the tourism industry

Abstract

The tourism industry has expanded throughout the years, devoting a considerable large amount to numerous economies, across many countries around the world. Crime may potentially have a significant impact on tourism as it could severely damage the image of a destination and may leave an impact on whether the tourist chooses to travel to a particular destination. The aim of the research is to explain and explore whether crime, safety and security can have an impact on the tourism industry. To obtain such information, the researcher decided to use both primary and secondary sources. The primary source was mainly qualitative with the help of semi-structured interviews. Research from secondary sources included articles, journals and other relevant academic articles that could further enhance the subject being studied. A purposive sample was used on the premise that the participants were specialized in the tourism sector, crime, and safety. A total of six participants accepted to participate in this study. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. The emergent themes were; Tourists’ preferences for a destination; Media influence and the factors that endanger safety and security; Types of crime; The victimization of tourists because of crime; People`s rationale for committing crime; Hotspot and Malta as a safe destination; The importance of security and safety in the tourism industry. Through the research, it was evident that crime, safety, and security have an impact on the tourism industry, with Malta being considered as a safe destination. In conclusion, some recommendations were provided with a view towards decreasing the impact of crime on tourists whilst also improving the safety and security of travellers.