Instância de governança do polo São Luís: análise sob a ótica de destinos turísticos inteligente no âmbito da governança turística

Abstract

The relationships established between tourism and territory depend on how they are conceptualized; the processes by which various social agents involved in tourism production appropriate specific areas of space result in a socio-spatial phenomenon and the realization of an economic activity that currently ranks among the most dynamic in the global economy. This spatial dimension of tourism must be viewed through the complementary, competing, and antagonistic lenses of the processes of space appropriation and domination by the sector's various agents. Given that tourism is a fundamental driver of social dynamism and fuels a chain of interconnected productive activities, this research focuses on highlighting tourism governance practices within the framework of the "Smart Tourist Destination" (DTI) concept — an initiative strengthened in Brazil by the Ministry of Tourism — specifically within the São Luís tourism hub. Consequently, the study aims to analyze tourism governance indicators based on the Ministry of Tourism’s "Smart Tourist Destination (DTI) Brazil" Methodological Plan (2022), using the Governance Body of the São Luís hub (located in the state of Maranhão) as a reference. The methodological design employs bibliographic and documentary research, alongside content analysis, by cross-referencing information gathered from the compiled meeting minutes of the São Luís hub’s Governance Body (2021–2023) with the requirements of the DTI Brazil Methodological Plan regarding the Governance Axis. Finally, the study employs an analysis based on the "researcher's log" technique, highlighting the researcher's role as an observer during the nine planning meetings held by the Governance Body between 2021 and 2024. The results indicate synergistic integration and coordination that facilitate the execution of activities and actions proposed by the governance structure of the São Luís tourism hub. Furthermore, the study notes the regularity of meetings — marked by the active participation of the São Luís Hub Governance Body members in accordance with a pre-established schedule — as well as the public availability of meeting agendas, signaling a transparent and accessible management approach. Regarding the DTI Governance Axis model, all sub-axes were found to be addressed; aspects related to participation and open management were most prominent, while planning, land use, and digital management were less emphasized. The study highlights the predominance of public sector participation and underscores the need to involve new stakeholders, as well as the importance of an introductory discussion on applying the DTI model to Regional Tourism Governance Bodies (IGRs).