The relationship between tourism and poverty is complex and multifaceted, often described as a "double-edged sword." On the positive side, tourism is a major driver of economic growth in developing nations, acting as a powerful tool for poverty alleviation by creating jobs in hospitality, transport, and local crafts. It brings in foreign exchange and stimulates infrastructure development, such as roads and telecommunications, that benefits local communities. However, if not managed sustainably, it can lead to "economic leakage," where profits are siphoned off by multinational corporations rather than staying within the local economy. Furthermore, rapid tourism growth can drive up the cost of living, making housing and food unaffordable for the very people it was meant to help. In 2026, the global focus has shifted toward "Pro-Poor Tourism" (PPT), which specifically designs tourism interventions to unlock opportunities for the poor rather than focusing solely on increasing total visitor numbers. Ultimately, tourism's ability to reduce poverty depends on local ownership, fair wages, and the protection of the social and environmental resources that attract visitors in the first place.