
Harry Theoharis, former Minister of Tourism in Greece, has officially announced his candidacy for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). With a proven track record of leadership and innovation in the tourism sector, Theoharis is positioning himself as a forward-thinking candidate who seeks to guide the future of global tourism in a sustainable and inclusive direction.
During his tenure as Greece’s Minister of Tourism, Theoharis implemented several initiatives aimed at boosting the country’s tourism sector, including digital transformation strategies and efforts to diversify tourism offerings beyond traditional hotspots. His candidacy for the UNWTO role is focused on advancing the recovery and growth of the tourism industry worldwide, particularly as the sector continues to rebound from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Central to Theoharis’ vision is the promotion of sustainability and the responsible development of tourism that benefits all communities, not just the destinations themselves. He also advocates for leveraging new technologies to modernize tourism services and make the industry more accessible and resilient. By prioritizing collaboration among nations and stakeholders, Theoharis aims to create a more cohesive and adaptable global tourism framework.
His experience in navigating complex governmental and international landscapes, coupled with his passion for tourism’s potential as a driver of economic and cultural growth, makes Theoharis a compelling candidate to lead the UNWTO into its next chapter.