The Impact of Crises on the Libyan Tourism Sector and the Role of Domestic Tourism in Mitigating Their Effects: An Analytical Study of the Views of Experts and Stakeholders in the Tourism Sector

Abstract

The study aims to highlight the effects resulting from the exposure of the Libyan tourism sector to various crises and shocks, whether they were political, security, economic, or even local or international health crises, and during the time period (2011 to 2025), whereas this topic was chosen as a result of the negative repercussions that these crises had on the Libyan tourism sector, which is considered one of the important sources of income in Libya. A descriptive and analytical approach has been adopted to identify the crises that most significantly impact the sector and to develop a set of solutions and proposals to mitigate the risks to which the tourism sector is exposed as a result of these crises. The study concluded that the Libyan tourism sector is highly sensitive to crises and shocks, but it quickly recovers and resumes its growth. It also found that political and security crises have had the most severe impact on the sector. Although the COVID-19 pandemic was one of the most severe crises the world has faced, with all countries suffering from the cessation of their economic, social, cultural, sports, religious and tourism activities, and despite its severe impact on the Libyan tourism sector, it played a positive role in increasing domestic tourism.