The influence of risk perception on tourism behaviour

So far, a few academic studies have addressed how the perception of risk among potential tourists influences travel decisions. However, no research has been carried out to assess acceptance of the non-pharmaceutical interventions currently being debated that are linked to travellers’ intentions and choices, such as quarantine periods after re-entry to the home location, social distancing measures, and the obligation to wear face masks and coverings.

The the aim of this research project is to answer the following question: How do travellers perceive the risk of pandemic infections while travelling, and how does this perception affect decisions regarding tourist behaviour and the use and acceptance of non-pharmaceutical interventions? In addition, it is of interest to know how travellers design their travel plans and which travel behaviours are pursued or avoided as a consequence of their perceived travel risk.

Based on evidence-based containment measures that have an impact on pandemic-safe tourism, the project results will deliver appropriate recommendations and solutions to combat the current and future pandemics in the form of effective non-pharmaceutical interventions. The research project will provide a scientific basis for decision-making by the government and administration. Stakeholders with an interest in the research results include the federal government, policymakers, health professionals, citizens and public institutions in the field of travel and tourism.

The interventions developed will generate a basis for discussion and application to serve as a guide to further research endeavours with the aim of improving the prevention and management of future pandemics. Our target audiences, in the form of practitioner communities such as the various federal offices, will receive toolboxes for evidence-based intervention design in order to address the field of tourism and containment measures. Based on our findings, our proposed interventions will be tested and implemented.

Risk perception and tourism behaviour: how to control pandemic infectious diseases through non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs)

Prof. Timo OhnmachtCovid-Toolbox