Dinámicas de liderazgo enfocadas en el rol de las mujeres en el contexto de turismo comunitario. Caso de estudio: Sisid Anejo, Cañar, Ecuador

Abstract

This study seeks to understand how the roles assumed by women influence the development and strengthening of community tourism in the indigenous community of Sisid Anejo, in the province of Cañar, Ecuador. To this end, a qualitative study of an exploratory and descriptive nature was carried out, using focus groups and participant observation. Women directly linked to tourism, and women from the community who are not related to this activity, participated in the focus groups, which allowed for a broader and more diverse vision of the existing social and cultural dynamics. The results show that, although women play a fundamental role in the daily operation of the community tourism center, their roles are mainly concentrated in operational and support tasks, while the positions of higher hierarchy and decision-making continue to be occupied mostly by men. In addition, women face a double workload, combining the productive tasks of tourism with domestic responsibilities, many of which are unpaid. Male migration has increased these burdens, creating new challenges and opportunities for female participation. However, the lack of public policies with a gender perspective limits their empowerment and recognition. Despite these obstacles, participation in tourism and community support have contributed to initial processes of economic autonomy and female leadership in the community.