Harry Theoharis, a Greek Parliament member and former Minister of Tourism, presented his candidacy for Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) during the World Travel Market (WTM) 2024 in London. Theoharis, announced by Greece as its candidate for the prestigious role in October, is advocating for a proactive, impactful UN Tourism agency that addresses modern global challenges.
Campaigning for a Stronger, Action-Oriented UN Tourism Organization
Throughout WTM London, held on November 5-6 at the Excel Center, Theoharis engaged in extensive discussions with tourism ministers from nations including Italy, Portugal, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, and Bulgaria. He also met with industry leaders from top public and private tourism organizations to build support for his vision of a more action-oriented UN Tourism organization.
“The UNWTO must evolve to become more impactful, aligning with global goals for a sustainable and resilient tourism industry,” Theoharis stated. His platform focuses on enhancing the UN Tourism body’s ability to influence positive change in areas such as sustainability and economic resilience.
Advocating for Sustainable Tourism and Innovation through AI
During the WTM 2024 Ministers’ Summit, Theoharis contributed insights on the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in tourism. He highlighted AI’s transformative role in streamlining visitor experiences, such as managing airport queues, optimizing maintenance, and improving overall service efficiency. Theoharis emphasized that while tourism is a deeply human experience, AI offers tools to enhance convenience without compromising the personal connection that defines travel.
“AI can optimize various aspects of the travel experience, helping reduce common frustrations and creating smoother journeys for tourists,” he noted.
Building Global Partnerships and Transforming the UNWTO
Theoharis’s presence at WTM London provided an opportunity to connect with influential figures in the tourism sector. He held discussions with leaders such as Andreas Fiorentinos (Secretary-General of GNTO), TUI Group CEO Sebastian Ebel, and Thomas Ellerbeck (Chairman of TUI Care Foundation), among others, discussing potential synergies and support for his vision.
Reflecting on his experiences at WTM, Theoharis described his campaign as an effort to “transform” the UN Tourism organization. “This is just the beginning of a movement towards a more dynamic UN Tourism body,” he said, expressing optimism about driving meaningful changes in the organization.
A Message of Hope and Transformation
Theoharis’s campaign is marked by a commitment to a progressive, impactful UN Tourism organization. His message of change and innovation, with a focus on environmental and economic sustainability, resonates with many global tourism leaders.
“The goal is a UNWTO that not only adapts but leads the way in sustainable tourism,” Theoharis affirmed, concluding his visit to WTM London on a note of optimism for his transformative agenda.
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