Women’s empowerment in tourism: a comparative study between Cuba and Mexico

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21142/DES-1802-2026-e0050

Keywords:

Women managers, women and developmet, human species, tourism, sustainable development

Abstract

This study explores women’s empowerment in tourism, comparing Cuba and Mexico. Data from 328 women were collected using a 5-point Likert-scale questionnaire, analyzing education, cultural challenges, innovation, and leadership. Non-parametric tests (Mann-Whitney U) revealed significant differences (p < 0.05). Cuban women scored higher in empowerment (average rank = 225.34) and education (p < 0.001), while Mexican women faced greater cultural challenges (p = 0.039). The findings highlight the need to address cultural barriers and promote education and innovation to enhance women’s empowerment. This research offers insights into empowerment processes in diverse contexts and provides actionable recommendations for policymakers.

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Author Biographies

  • Félix Díaz-Pompa, University of Holguin. Holguin, Cuba

    Ph.D. in Sciences, Full Professor. Coordinator of the Holinsost Territorial Research Program at the University of Holguin, focusing on sustainable and intelligent destinations.

  • Lianet Suárez-Cuba, University of Holguin. Holguin, Cuba

    Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism and Teaching Technical Assistant at the University of Holguin. Coordinator of the Geotourism in Gibara project and member of the Holguin Tourist Observatory.

  • Rosa María del Consuelo Rivera-Villegas, Autonomous University of Puebla. Puebla, Mexico

    Professor in the Department of Business Administration at the Autonomous University of Puebla, Mexico.

  • María Guadalupe Ávila-Zambrano, Autonomous University of Puebla. Puebla, Mexico

    Ph.D. in Sciences and professor in the Department of Law at the Autonomous University of Puebla, Mexico.

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Published

2026-06-22

How to Cite

Women’s empowerment in tourism: a comparative study between Cuba and Mexico. (2026). Desde El Sur, 18(2), e0050. https://doi.org/10.21142/DES-1802-2026-e0050

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