The development of military tourism as one of the directions of the tourism industry in the post-war period in Ukraine (using the example of Kyiv region)

Abstract

This study examines modern changes in tourism of Ukraine, which are associated with increased interest in military tours. Using the example of the Kyiv region, with the help of consideration of tourism industry subjects (travel companies) and population survey, the possibilities of developing a new segment of tourism for this area were considered. Before the start of Russia's full-scale aggression against Ukraine in 2022, this direction was not sufficiently represented in general in all regions, although the historical and cultural base is quite significant. By examining the cultural heritage in the country in whole and in one of its regions – the Kyiv region – the diversity of military objects, fortification lines, museums, historical battlefields, as well as the transformation of the population and the willingness to show their history and experience of the struggle for independence were noted. Taken into consideration, that military tourism is for self-education and personal experience, it is an important part of allowing visitors to immerse themselves in places associated with patriotic events. At the moment, the borders of Ukraine are closed for tourists, the state is under martial law, and the security situation does not allow the full development of the tourism industry. However, important for those, who are working in the service sector is the post-war recovery and the presentation of a strategy for the development of tourist destinations. Accordingly, we proposed a number of recommendations for the development of military tourism in the Kyiv region, taking into account the vision of local residents and the events that took place there. Among the submitted proposals, the main focus was on symbols of indomitability during the war (the rooster from Borodianka, Patron the dog, Ukrainian songs created during the war, etc.), which can serve as names for festivals, master classes, etc. The research presented by us is relevant from the point of view of the inevitable growth of interest on the part of foreign tourists. That is why the research is based not simply on the historical or architectural analysis of the objects, but on the consideration of the current situation, which provides the opportunity to review the cities that were under occupation. From this point of view, military tourism that will develop in the post-war period should be based on both qualitative and quantitative research methods, which with a thorough analysis will increase interest in military activities without harming the local population.