Abstract
Studies concerning conflicts in tourist destinations have primarily focused on empirical data bound to specific geographical locations and socio-cultural conditions. However, there is currently a dearth of publications that have proposed a generalised conceptualisation of conflicts in tourist destinations upon which further studies can be based. Consequently, this conceptual paper critically analyses and conceptualises the intricate causes of conflict involving groups of local people in tourist destinations. This study finds that such conflicts occur due to the empowerment efforts of actors lacking power who advocate for their values and interests, resulting in a clash of power between actors. These lesser-powered groups are driven by a protective urge, a sense of unfairness, and a sense of mismanagement and bad governance. This paper concludes by providing a conceptual foundation for implementing measures to prevent and resolve conflicts in tourism.