RESEARCH ARTICLES
Advancing animal justice in tourism, hospitality and leisure: the case of the ATLAS special interest group
DOI:
10.1080/22243534.2026.2639209
Author(s):
Lucia TomassiniAcademy of of Leisure, Tourism, and Hospitality, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, The Netherlands, Giovanna BertellaSchool of Business and Economics, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Norway, Doriana ChodorSchool of Business and Society, Glasgow Caledonian University, UK, Jörgen EksellDepartment of Communication, Lund University, Sweden, Akke FolmerAcademy of of Leisure, Tourism, and Hospitality, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, The Netherlands, José-Carlos García-RosellOulu Business School, University of Oulu, Finland, Carlo GuadagnoCentre of Geographical Studies, Institute of Geography and Spatial Planning, University of Lisbon, Portugal, Minni HaanpääFaculty of Social Sciences, University of Lapland, Finland, Hindertje Hoarau-HeemstraFaculty of Social Sciences, Nord University, Norway, Carol KlineDepartment of Management, Appalachian State University, United States of America, Meghan MuldoonSustainable Environment and Well-being, University of Groningen, Netherlands, Brigitte NitschAcademy of of Leisure, Tourism, and Hospitality, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, The Netherlands, Rodney WesterlakenAcademy of of Leisure, Tourism, and Hospitality, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, The Netherlands,
Abstract
This research note examines the purpose and role of the ATLAS special interest group (SIG) Animals in Tourism, Hospitality, and Leisure and its contribution to advancing animal justice in tourism studies and practice. Drawing on the case of this recently established academic community, it reflects on the SIG’s development, aims and future directions one year after its foundation. Using insights from a participatory workshop with members and guided by the principles of a theory of change, the note discusses how the SIG fosters ethical reflection, critical dialogue and transformative education across tourism, hospitality and leisure. While clarifying the SIG’s scope and roadmap, it also considers its potential as an intentional assemblage – a collaborative, values-driven collective connecting knowledge, care and action for reimagining human-animal relationships in tourism research and education.
Get new issue alerts for Research in Hospitality Management
