A few weeks ago, as each of us a former Secretary-General, we called for a change at the head of the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). We have learned now with great satisfaction that the Government of Georgia has withdrawn its endorsement to the candidature of the current Secretary General, Zurab Pololikashvili. This decision is in line with the resolution adopted by its General Assembly in 2005 limiting to two terms the mandate of the Secretary-General.

Mr Pololikashvili cannot be re-elected, but his departure will only take place in six months’ time. Under these circumstances and taking into account his questionable behavior since his first election in 2017, we feel compelled to solemnly appeal to the Executive Council members to restore as soon as possible the image of our Organisation and to ensure the integrity and the transparency in the way it is managed.

The upcoming months of transition are not without risk. Based on the past experience, we have legitimate concerns regarding the honesty of the future financial operations and the fairness of the possible appointments and promotions. They should not continue to benefit as before to close associates of the Secretary General. What has happened in the past must not continue and worsen during the transition.

In light of these concerns, we urge the Executive Council to immediately commission an external audit of the finances and the management of the Organization. This independent survey must be thorough and completed before the new leadership takes office. Only then can the incoming successor be fully aware of the Organization’s administrative and financial standing, that, we know, has deteriorated. The findings and recommendations of the audit will be submitted to the Executive Council.

We also call upon the Executive Council to put aside the outgoing Secretary-General and to appoint a provisional administrator to oversee the Organization from the date of the next session of the Council until December 31st. This transitional caretaker will ensure that only current affairs are treated -strictly excluding major recruitments and procurement processes.

We must not allow this six-months period to be used for decisions that may burden the next administration or erode public trust. Let us act now -not in reaction, but in prevention- so that the future of the UNWTO remains built on transparency, responsibility, and the sense of public service.