An increasing number of African tourism leaders and politicians are opposing the potential extension of Zurab Pololikashvili’s tenure as Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Critics argue that a third term would undermine the organization’s democratic principles and transparency.
UNWTO traditionally limits the Secretary-General’s term to two four-year periods. However, there are growing speculations about potential rule changes that would allow Pololikashvili to run for a third term in 2025. This move has sparked concerns about election integrity and the centralization of power.
African tourism representatives emphasize that leadership rotation ensures fresh perspectives, diversity, and a fair distribution of power among different regions. They believe that extending the Secretary-General’s tenure could weaken UNWTO’s role as a global representative body, favoring a select group of stakeholders instead.
The decision on whether to alter the existing rules should be thoroughly discussed, considering the views of all member states. Will UNWTO uphold its commitment to transparency and democracy? The coming months will reveal how this controversial issue unfolds.
