Introduction of A Mechanism for Developing The Role of The State and Private Sectors in Increasing The Potential of Pilgrimage Tourism in The Republic of Karakalpakstan

Abstract

Pilgrimage tourism in the Republic of Karakalpakstan represents a significant yet underdeveloped segment of the national tourism sector, with substantial potential rooted in its cultural and natural heritage. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, fostering public-private partnerships (PPPs) has emerged as a strategic pathway to enhance tourism infrastructure, attract investment, and stimulate regional economic growth through collaborative governance. Despite national interest and policy support, mechanisms for effective PPP implementation in pilgrimage tourism remain vague, with critical deficiencies in legal frameworks, coordination strategies, and regional marketing. This study aims to introduce a structured PPP mechanism tailored to developing the pilgrimage tourism potential in Karakalpakstan by aligning state initiatives with private sector participation in investment, infrastructure, and service provision. The proposed model identifies key development areas such as transport and hotel infrastructure, regional branding, and stakeholder cooperation. It categorizes barriers into infrastructural, institutional, resource-based, and reputational constraints. Implementation of the PPP mechanism has shown promise in aligning state investments in social infrastructure with private sector innovation and service delivery, ultimately increasing employment and tourism competitiveness. The research presents an original region-specific PPP framework for pilgrimage tourism that integrates legal, economic, and marketing strategies under a unified development vision. Adoption of this model is expected to improve institutional coordination, optimize public funds, attract diversified investments, and establish Karakalpakstan as a nationally and internationally competitive pilgrimage tourism destination.