Tourism is not only an important economic sector for many developing countries and a potential driving force for economic development but also plays an increasingly important role in poverty eradication and improving people's livelihood [1, 2].

The relationship between tourism and poverty is complex, but the consensus in 2026 is that poorly managed tourism can exacerbate poverty, while "Pro-Poor Tourism" (PPT) can alleviate it. Negative impacts occur through economic leakage, where up to 70–80% of tourist spending in developing nations leaves the country via foreign-owned hotel chains and tour operators, rather than staying in the local community. Additionally, tourism can drive up the cost of living—land, food, and housing prices—making it difficult for low-income residents to survive. Conversely, tourism is a massive creator of entry-level jobs for women, youth, and rural populations. Sociological research indicates that for tourism to truly reduce poverty, governments must implement policies that prioritize local sourcing and prevent the displacement of indigenous communities. Without these safeguards, tourism can create a "two-tier" society where wealth is concentrated in tourist zones while the surrounding local infrastructure and standard of living stagnate or decline.