Less is more: The Initiative “Mountain Villages” by the Austrian Alpine Association

As part of the "Mountain Villages" project, it was intended to determine the specific factors that contribute to the successful fulfillment of the target criteria for mountain villages. Specifically, two villages (St. Jodok a.B. and Ginzling) were selected as case studies.

THE CHALLENGE
The Mountain Villages Initiative faces several challenges. Due to the initial top-down approach, some communities lack awareness and motivation to actively participate in the initiative. The Alpine Club is therefore faced with the task of satisfying all those involved (such as residents, tourists, partner companies and tourism representatives) and responding to their needs.

OUTCOMES
The results of the empirical study are based on interviews and surveys with the community officials of St. Jodok and Ginzling. It was found that both communities share similar concerns and issues. Both villages are struggling with a decline in gastronomy, resulting in guests no longer staying overnight. This leads to an increase in day tourists but, at the same time, a decrease in economic value creation in the villages. The respondents also consider it a major challenge that the initiative is carried by too few individuals. A broader structuring and, in particular, the involvement of young people are urgently needed.

Mountain Village

Mountain Village

Fact Box
  • Study Program: Nonprofit, Social & Health Care Management
  • Team: Alexander Atzl, Hannah Huber and Vanessa Jach
  • Supervisor(s): Ass. FH-Prof. Dr. Raffael Heiss, MA; Mag. Renate Windbichler, MIM; FH-Prof. Dr. Nils Mevenkamp
  • Partner Organisation: Austrian Alpine Association
  • Year project was carried out: 2023