This Model Law is aimed at establishing a unified legal framework for the regulation and development of ecotourism across member states. It defines key concepts such as ecotourism, ecotourist services, destinations, operators, and resources, and outlines the scope of legal regulation. The Law identifies the main actors involved in ecotourism (tour operators, travel agents, tourists, and public authorities) and establishes the objectives of sustainable tourism, emphasizing environmental protection, responsible travel practices, and benefits to local communities. The Law provides a comprehensive system of state regulation in the ecotourism sector, including the formulation of public policy, strategic planning, and the development of standards and accreditation systems. It sets out the roles and powers of central, regional, and local authorities in supporting ecotourism, promoting investment (including through public-private partnerships), ensuring environmental safety, and fostering international cooperation. The creation and maintenance of state registers of ecotourism resources and services are introduced as key regulatory tools to ensure quality, safety, and transparency in the market. A significant part of the Law addresses the organization and functioning of the ecotourism sector, including the classification and use of ecotourism resources, the establishment of ecotourism clusters, and the requirements for operators providing ecotourism services. It introduces mandatory accreditation for tour operators, sets professional and financial requirements, and regulates the development and sale of ecotourism packages. The Law also promotes the role of national associations of ecotourism operators, which coordinate industry activities, support policy implementation, and contribute to maintaining quality standards and environmental safeguards. Finally, the Law establishes provisions on the protection of ecotourists’ rights and safety, including access to information, insurance, and emergency assistance, as well as obligations to comply with environmental and safety rules. It includes mechanisms for international cooperation, particularly within CIS countries, and ensures that only ecotourism services meeting environmental safety standards are allowed on the market. The Law concludes with rules on state supervision, liability for violations, reinforcing its role as a comprehensive model framework for the sustainable and regulated development of ecotourism.
2019-11-22