“It Grows Alone”: Exploring the Implications of Marine Ecotourism Development on Water Insecurity in Bocas del Toro, Panama

Abstract

As a dimension of a blue economy, marine ecotourism should not only increase economic viability and environmental sustainability but, most importantly, pursue social equity. In island regions, where substantial tourism appeal often coincides with water insecurity, questions have emerged regarding the ability of a blue economy, rooted in marine ecotourism, to balance development and well-being. Using semi-structured interviews, non-participant observations, and supplemental research, this investigation examines this paradox through a case study in Bocas del Toro, Panama, documenting experiences with water shortages and the perceived role of government and industry, examining whether water shortages have influenced regional policies and investment, and exploring management implications regarding Panama’s blue economy and marine ecotourism across water insecure island regions. Through exploring Bocas del Toro’s economic development, assessing the marine ecotourism and water governance landscape, garnering local experiences with water insecurity, and examining future plans and policies, results highlight the role that marine ecotourism and water insecurity play in shaping local realities and perceptions of development in Bocas del Toro, where there exists a critical disconnect between government aspirations for marine ecotourism and infrastructure development and the needs of those living in the region. A discussion of the theoretical underpinnings of accountability, trust, and development priorities, and an exploration of the role of colonialism and systemic racism, have shown that this case is not strictly a matter of water infrastructure and marine ecotourism, but rather the underlying issues that shape the nature of growth in island regions, as well as who proves to benefit from a blue economy.