Faouzou Dème of Senegal aspires to lead UNWTO

26-12-24

Faouzou Dème, a prominent Senegalese professional with more than 30 years of experience in the tourism sector, has officially announced his candidacy for the post of Secretary General of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). His nomination marks an important milestone, not only for Senegal but for the entire African continent, in the quest for more meaningful representation within this international organization.

Dème, known for his in-depth knowledge and experience in the tourism industry, has played a crucial role in promoting sustainable tourism in Africa. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with governments, international institutions and private companies to promote tourism development as an engine of economic growth and cultural cohesion.

His candidacy comes at a key moment, as the term of office of the current Secretary General, Zurab Pololikashvili, ends in 2025. With the opening of the electoral process at UNWTO, Dème's candidacy reinforces the need for a diverse leadership committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Dème has expressed her intention to lead UNWTO with a focus on sustainability, international cooperation and empowerment of local communities. Its main proposals include:

• Promotion of sustainable tourism: its plan includes policies to balance tourism growth with environmental preservation and respect for host communities.

• Inclusive development: Dème seeks to foster job creation and economic opportunities in rural and urban areas, ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach everyone.

• Strengthening international partnerships: It proposes closer collaboration between UNWTO Member States, the private sector and non-governmental organizations.

• Boosting innovation and digitization: Recognizing the importance of technology, it plans to encourage the use of digital tools to improve the tourism experience and the sustainability of the sector.

Faouzou Dème's candidacy also highlights Africa's growing importance in the international tourism landscape. Despite the economic and social challenges facing the region, Africa has exceptional tourism potential, with rich cultural diversity, historical heritage and unique natural resources.

Proponents of Dème's candidacy argue that her leadership in the UNWTO could generate greater attention to African destinations, increasing the flow of visitors and, consequently, economic revenues. They also see in her experience an opportunity to strengthen the capacity of African countries to manage and promote their tourism industry in a sustainable manner.

A number of tourism leaders and organizations in Africa have expressed their support for Dème, highlighting its ability to lead innovative and effective initiatives. They believe that its balanced approach between economic development and social responsibility could transform the way tourism contributes to the progress of local communities.

The endorsement of his candidacy also reflects a growing demand for greater African representation in international bodies such as the UNWTO. For many, the election of an African leader would be a step toward more inclusive and equitable governance.

The selection process for the next UNWTO Secretary General is scheduled to take place in the coming months. The organization's member states will be responsible for electing Pololikashvili's successor, and an intense campaign is expected in which the candidates will present their visions and proposals.

Dème has begun to consolidate its position as a strong contender, appealing to both the need for change and the urgency of addressing the current challenges facing the global tourism sector.