Georgia Withdraws Zurab Pololikashvili’s Candidacy for UN Tourism Leadership in Surprise Move

In a surprising shift that has stunned the global tourism community, Georgia has withdrawn the candidacy of Zurab Pololikashvili for a new term as Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). The announcement comes less than three weeks before the scheduled election on May 30, catching diplomats and industry leaders around the world off guard.

The Georgian government had initially nominated Pololikashvili, who has led the UNWTO since 2018 and was re-elected in 2021. However, the country has now decided to back Shaikha Al Nowais, the candidate from the United Arab Emirates, signaling a strategic shift that reshapes the race for the organization’s top position.

Although Pololikashvili has not made any public statements following the news, speculation is mounting about possible bilateral agreements or geopolitical pressure behind the move. Some analysts suggest a potential deal with the UAE, while others point to influence from Russia, which was suspended from the UN Tourism during Pololikashvili’s tenure due to its invasion of Ukraine.

With his exit, the race for Secretary-General is now primarily between two candidates: Gloria Guevara Manzo, former Mexican tourism minister with strong backing from countries in Latin America, Europe, and Africa; and Al Nowais, a professional affiliated with the ADNEC Group who enjoys solid support from the Persian Gulf region. The two candidates represent distinct visions for the future of the organization.

The election will be held via secret ballot by the Executive Council, which is composed of 35 member states. To be elected, the new Secretary-General must secure at least 18 votes, and the appointment will later be submitted for ratification at the next General Assembly.

Regardless of the outcome, Georgia’s decision raises broader questions about the need for internal reform at the UN Tourism, greater institutional transparency, and the role of tourism in addressing 21st-century challenges such as sustainability, global equity, and digital cooperation. For now, Pololikashvili fades from the spotlight without a statement, leaving the tourism world to reflect on his legacy and the future direction of the organization.