Conclusion
An improved state is possible as incidents provide opportunities as well as threats for those concerned. However, the time required between the long-term recovery and resolution stage can vary, based upon size, complexity and nature of a crisis or disaster as well as an understanding of the dimensions of resolution (which can include human recovery elements).
Long term positive and negative transformation can occur at an organizational, destination and human/community level, as a result of tourism crisis or disaster. Organizations can increase their vitality and longevity, examine relationships with industry stakeholders and customers, and develop new products, market and programs to reduce their costs. Organization term spirit and cohesion can also be established. At a destination level dealing with a crisis or disaster can also increase destination cohesiveness, within the tourism industry and between the tourism industry and associated groups (such as emergency workers, government and the community). Policy changes may occur as a result of disasters acerbating change and a realization of the positive impact and value of tourism. Infrastructure may be rebuilt and improved and greater planning and mitigation measures may also be introduced. However, community tensions may exist over the allocation of recovery funding and development options, while some workers may leave the destination due to trauma.
Human and community transformation may also occur as a result of physical and mental exhaustion and post-traumatic stress for the local community, emergency workers and tourists themselves. Support services and intervention is required, especially for those people most vulnerable including children, elderly and emergency workers. The roles of family, peers, co-workers and the nature of the incident will influence the nature of recovery and the speed of resolution. Further work and research is required on the long-term recovery and resolution phase of crises and disasters. In particular, research is required on the role of social capital and livelihood assets as a way to integrate long-term recovery and resolution strategies into broader sustainable development resilience and reduce future vulnerability.