Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of UN Tourism, is running for re-election as head of the United Nations’ specialized agency with the aim of continuing to promote tourism globally, in a complex international context marked by uncertainty and mistrust.
Pololikashvili, having achieved the full recovery of the tourism sector after the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, is committed to continuing the organization’s line of action and strengthening the role of tourism as a driving force of prosperity and global cooperation. At a historic moment in which tourism is facing major challenges — 56 active conflicts around the world, the highest number since the Second World War, trade wars and the rise of “tourismphobia” — the Secretary-General builds his candidacy on unity, safety and trust, which are key to the development of tourism.
To address these challenges, Pololikashvili seeks continuity on the path towards an organization that leads the development of the sector not only as an economic tool, but also as a catalyst for peace: "Tourism has the potential to change lives, transform economies and build bridges between cultures. Let's keep working to make this sector a true tool for development and global cooperation.”
Collaboration, Investment and Sustainability for Resilient Tourism
In this line, the current Secretary-General and candidate for re-election presents a program that includes various lines of action with the intention of raising the position of UN Tourism at a global level, while supporting destinations and member states, and promoting collaboration with leading private entities.
The proposals include international technical cooperation and incentives for investment in strategic projects, an approach that the organization has been working on for years to promote public-private collaboration and help in the development of tourist destinations worldwide. In addition to this, work will continue to be carried out in areas such as education, innovation and technology, supported at all times by sustainable policies and the fight against climate change.
At present, UN Tourism does not impose term limits on its Secretary-General. Although the General Assembly proposed an amendment twenty years ago to limit the position to a single reappointment — an idea not originally included in its statutes — this amendment was never enacted, and the organization still does not enforce any restrictions. In Pololikashvili’s case, the General Assembly held a vote in 2023 in which more than 70% of members approved his candidacy for the 2026–2029 term, thereby legitimizing his intention to continue in the role for the coming years.
