Talef Rifai urges renewed leadership at UN Tourism

02-04-25

Dr. Taleb Rifai, former Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) between 2010 and 2017, has issued a strong public statement advocating for institutional renewal and leadership rotation within the organisation. Rifai emphasised the urgent need to respect multilateral values, highlighting transparency, inclusiveness and regional balance as essential elements to ensure the credibility and legitimacy of international organisations.

In his statement, Rifai clearly expresses his rejection of the possibility of a third term for any Secretary General, and specifically the current incumbent, arguing that such a prolongation would be incompatible with the fundamental principles that should govern global institutions. Renewal of leadership, according to Rifai, is vital to maintain the confidence of member states and to ensure that the organisation remains representative and effective.

The former Secretary General also stressed that the global tourism sector is currently facing significant challenges, requiring renewed leadership, grounded in global experience and vision. Dr. Rifai stressed that this renewal must be based on unity and accountability, promoting an innovative approach to effectively meet the challenges of the present and the near future.

A key point in Dr Rifai's statement was his strong support for the inclusion of female leadership as a fundamental part of institutional renewal. Rifai argued strongly that the next Secretary General of Tourism should be led by a woman, whose perspective, professionalism and global vision are a true reflection of the values that the organisation promotes and needs.

Next meeting between Gloria Guevara and Harry Theoharis

In this context, Rifai specifically mentioned the upcoming meeting between Gloria Guevara and Harry Theoharis, candidates for the Secretariat General, stressing that both possess essential qualities to prevent the current Secretary General from obtaining a third term. He emphasised that such a meeting is essential to consolidate a joint vision that supports positive change in line with the fundamental principles of international cooperation.

Rifai also called for leadership with courage, clarity and absolute respect for the multilateral principles that enable effective international cooperation. He said that global tourism is entering a new era that requires leadership that not only meets the challenges, but also embodies the ideals of diversity and inclusion at the highest levels.

Rifai's public statement has been widely interpreted as a strong endorsement of the women's candidacy and a clear call for member states to seriously consider the need for a deep and effective institutional transformation. Rifai insisted that, at this critical time for global tourism governance, any deviation from these fundamental principles would be detrimental to the body's reputation and functionality.

Finally, Rifai stressed that the current times call for clear and decisive leadership, enabling UN Tourism to face new global challenges effectively and with a renewed collaborative spirit. The former Secretary-General's statement has generated immediate attention in diplomatic and tourism circles, where the discussion on the future leadership of the organisation is increasingly intensifying.

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