Five years on—Impact of social tourism research in Finland

This commentary article evaluates the impact of Finnish social tourism research five years after its publication. It demonstrates that the research has contributed to justifying the existence of social tourism, although such impacts are difficult to evaluate. The research has also influenced current effectiveness-measurement practices and contributed to the development of social tourism offerings. It highlights how university–industry collaboration can strengthen both the scientific quality and real-world relevance of research. However, despite scientific evidence of its effectiveness, societal development and shifting political priorities have jeopardized the future of Finnish social tourism. • Research has contributed to justifying the funding of Finnish social tourism. • Research has influenced effectiveness measurement and social tourism offerings. • Abstract-level research impacts can be difficult to evaluate. • Political and societal changes can shape the impact of (social) tourism research. • University–industry collaboration can enhance the overall contribution of research.