Ozturk, IlkerAltunoz, UtkuTankus, Emre2026-04-252026-04-2520262178-9061https://doi.org/10.18226/21789061.v17ip026002https://hdl.handle.net/11486/8526This research investigates the nuanced impact of skilled and unskilled labor on the tourism sector in developing and middle-income countries through a comprehensive panel data analysis. Recognizing the significance of the tourism industry as a driver of economic growth, the study aims to discern how the composition of labor, particularly skilled and unskilled, contributes to the sector's dynamics. The research methodology is based on panel data analysis. This involves collecting and analyzing data from a number of countries over a period of time. This approach provides a powerful tool for comparing and analyzing different aspects of the tourism sector in different countries. The analysis highlights key variables such as employment levels, productivity, and economic performance. The analysis focuses on key variables such as employment levels, productivity, and economic performance within the tourism sector. By employing advanced econometric techniques, the study aims to disentangle the distinct contributions of skilled and unskilled labor to the sector's overall success. We anticipate that the findings of this research will provide valuable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and academics. Understanding the differential impacts of skilled and unskilled labor on the tourism sector can inform targeted interventions and strategic initiatives aimed at optimizing workforce composition, enhancing productivity, and fostering sustainable economic development in the selected countries. This information can enable specific countries to develop more effective policies in the tourism industry and create a more solid foundation for the sector.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/closedAccessTourism sectorProductivityPanel data analysisEconomic growthArticle18110.18226/21789061.v17ip026002N/AWOS:001713414100001Q4