Transformation of the paradigm of post-war economic development of coastal tourist destinations and communities in Southern Ukraine: from vulnerability to resilience

Abstract

The article examines the transformation processes in the development of coastal destinations within the communities of Southern Ukraine, which have emerged at the epicentre of security, economic, and environmental crises resulting from full-scale armed aggression. Particular attention is paid to rethinking conceptual approaches to the development of territories that have traditionally specialised in the exploitation of natural resources — specifically the coastline — for mass beach tourism. The study substantiates the scientific hypothesis that the continued viability of such communities depends on a fundamental transition from a model of "resource vulnerability" to a model of "systemic resilience" within tourist socio-ecological systems. Using the Koblivska rural territorial community as a representative case study, the author analyses strategies for post-war recovery. The research demonstrates that the traditional emphasis on mass beach recreation is no longer viable in the current reality due to mine hazards, logistical disruptions, and shifting consumer demand. Drawing on best European practices from "weather-resistant" resorts in Germany, Poland, and Sweden, the article proposes the implementation of a multi-vector "Eno-Eco-Wellness" model. Special emphasis is placed on using the balneological potential of the Tyligul estuary as a base for creating a year-round health and rehabilitation cluster, which is of critical importance for the social adaptation of veterans and IDPs. The paper reveals in detail the role of winemaking traditions (wine tourism) and the nature reserve fund as assets that diversify the tourist product and minimise dependence on access to the coastline. The tools of the European Tourism Indicator System (ETIS) and the principles of "Smart Tourism" have been integrated into scientific circulation, which allows digitalising destination management and increasing its competitiveness. The author emphasises that the foundation of resilience is the institutional capacity of the community - the ability to create public-private partnerships and involve social partners in decision-making processes. The results of the study contain specific recommendations for the implementation of modern marketing tools to promote local cultural heritage and ancient crafts. The article summarises that the transformation of the development paradigm will allow coastal communities of Southern Ukraine to become sustainable, innovative and environmentally friendly destinations integrated into the European tourism space in accordance with the goals of the European Tourism Agenda 2030. Three strategic development scenarios for Ukrainian coastal communities are proposed: health, enogastronomic and environmental. Strategic scenarios for the transformation of tourist destinations through the implementation of the Eno-Eco-Health model integrated into the concept of sustainable community development are identified.