CONSEQUENCES OF ECONOMIC AND MILITARY INSTABILITY FOR TOURISM IN BANGLADESH AND ST. MARTIN

The global tourism sector, recognized for its ability to spur economic growth and facilitate cultural exchange, is susceptible to external economic and political events. This study gives a detailed analysis of how economic instability and regional military conflict have combined to hurt the tourism industry in Bangladesh, focusing on St. Martin’s Island (Narikel Jinjira). By comparing data from before the crises (around 2018- 2019) with current data, this research shows how the economic value and structure of tourism have declined. The study looks at two main problems: first, the domestic economic problem of the Bangladeshi Taka’s falling value and rising inflation, which has reduced the spending power of the middle class, a key group for tourism. Second, it examines the external political problem of the ongoing civil war in Myanmar, which has increased the perception of risk in the area. The research finds that these issues have changed consumer behavior and the tourism market, with a drop in international tourism and an increase in domestic budget travel. At the same time, the study shows how marketing strategies have changed, with stakeholders moving from international branding to digital crisis communication and price promotions to keep visitors coming despite the uncertainty. The study ends by noting that without economic improvement and a resolution to the regional security problems, Bangladesh’s tourism sector, as seen in St. Martin’s Island, could face lasting market problems and a cycle of environmental damage and lower profits.