📰 Reform to Transform: Harry Theoharis’ Vision for UN Tourism
📅 Candidate Statement – Secretary-General of UN Tourism
🗳️ Executive Council Vote: May 29
Tourism is one of the most dynamic engines of global connection and economic growth. Yet, despite its immense potential, UN Tourism is stuck, bogged down by bureaucracy, inefficiency, and outdated practices. Shockingly, it is one of the least funded UN organizations, ranking twenty-fifth out of 28 agencies. This lack of resources, coupled with stagnant leadership, has left UN Tourism unable to truly lead or support the global tourism sector.
It’s time to break free from this cycle, reform the organization, and restore its role as a driving force for innovation and sustainable growth. My mission for UN Tourism is clear. I will transform it into a transparent, dynamic, and unifying force that drives growth, mobilizes investment, and fosters solidarity.
We will achieve this by working hand in hand with member states, the private sector, communities, and global institutions — delivering results for all. I have a plan for UN Tourism and bold, clear solutions.
To the Executive Council member states, I ask: When you vote on May 29, your vote is not just a choice. You have the power to choose change. Vote for a leader who will not just talk about transformation, but deliver it.
I am committed to restoring UN Tourism’s credibility and effectiveness. Join me in building a UN Tourism that doesn’t just talk about change — but drives it. Let’s reform to transform and unite to grow together. In these turbulent times, leadership is required more than ever.
