Vanessa Theuriau, a journalist with the United Nations Tourism and Society Think Tank, expressed concerns regarding the current UN Tourism Secretary-General's use of official resources during his reelection campaign. She said that this "casts doubt on the neutrality of the organization."
"The constant inclusion of political, business, sports and cultural personalities in official events has generated suspicions about an instrumental use of UN Tourism's institutional visibility to project the image of the current Secretary General," said Theuriau. "Their participation in strategically scheduled events - just before crucial decisions - casts doubt on the neutrality of the organization. These actions have raised concerns about the possible use of institutional resources to promote their candidacy. Various analysts and players in the tourism sector have warned that these practices could contravene the principles of ethics and impartiality that should govern the actions of any United Nations agency."
The race for the next Secretary-General of UN Tourism has attracted six candidates from various regions, highlighting an international demand for greater inclusivity and stronger regional representation in tourism leadership. Among the candidates is Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais from the United Arab Emirates, who could become the first woman from the Middle East to lead the organization if elected. According to the NYC Gazette, key themes in this campaign include sustainable development, gender equality, and ensuring a more balanced regional voice in shaping global tourism policy.
The 2025 election process for the UN Tourism Secretary-General position began with candidacy submissions due by January 31, 2025. The 123rd session of the Executive Council is scheduled to meet in Madrid on May 29–30, 2025, to recommend a candidate. The final appointment will be made by the General Assembly during its 26th session in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 7–11, 2025. These procedures are detailed in official UN Tourism documentation outlining the election timeline and protocols.
Theuriau is a journalist with experience in tourism-related media and is associated with the Tourism and Society Think Tank (TSTT). Her work focuses on analyzing tourism trends and policies, contributing to discussions on sustainable and inclusive tourism development. Through her involvement with TSTT, she engages with professionals and stakeholders to explore innovative ideas in the tourism sector.