Paper Title
GIDELI SPINNING TRADITION AS A TRIGGER FOR COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (CASE OF CHOKHATAURI MUNICIPALITY, GURIA REGION)

Abstract
In 2007, Georgia became a member of the UNESCO Convention on the Protection of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) which implies safeguarding and conserving ICH elements inscribed in the ICH list according to domains. The research target - Gideli Spinning, is one of the unique intangible cultural traditions in Guria region. Although its significance is recognized, Gideli Spinning has not yet received the National Status of ICH, typically granted by the National Agency for Cultural Heritage Preservation in Georgia. However, the group working on Gideli case considers that sooner or later it would be encouraged. In the research frames, the advantages and disadvantages of authentic Intangible Cultural Heritage (Gideli Spinning) were identified and analyzed via qualitative and quantitative research methods and a case study approach. Subsequently, SWOT and Risk analyses were conducted, and recommendations were made for a short-term strategy to provide an integrated path for further activities and gain success stories via Key Performance Indicators. This commitment demonstrates the dedication to preserving the unique intangible cultural heritage of Chokhatauri Municipality for future generations. The initiative will not only help to maintain the local identity but also it will ensure employment opportunities, offer jobs, serve as a tool for mitigating migration, promote a green economy at the municipal level, and contribute to the socioeconomic well-being of Chokhatauri community-based tourism sustainable development. Keywords - Gideli Spinning, Culture, Community, Authenticity, Guria Region