UN Tourism Leadership Vote: Gloria Guevara Calls for Independent Observers | Gloria Guevara, a candidate for Secretary-General of UN Tourism, has called for independent election observers to be present at the upcoming 123rd Executive Council leadership vote taking place near Madrid at the end of this month.
In a move aimed at ensuring full transparency and integrity in the electoral process, Guevara urged all candidates to support the presence of neutral, internationally recognised observers to oversee the proceedings.
“This election is a pivotal moment for global tourism, and the values we uphold as a sector must begin with how we choose our leadership,” said Guevara. “The presence of independent observers would reflect the highest standards of democratic accountability — something that all candidates should welcome if they are committed to a fair and open process.”
Guevara stressed the importance of clearly communicating the election procedures to all candidates in advance of the vote. In addition to the presence of independent observers, she has called for the active participation of member countries in the oversight process, noting that such engagement would reinforce confidence in the outcome and demonstrate a shared commitment to openness and accountability across the UN Tourism community.
Guevara emphasised that transparency, good governance and inclusivity are fundamental pillars of the UN system and must be reflected in how its individual agencies operate, especially at moments of leadership transition.
“The tourism sector represents people, communities and livelihoods across the world. We cannot afford any perception of impropriety or bias in how its global leadership is selected. Independent oversight is not only appropriate — it is essential,” she added.
Guevara has formally requested that independent observers be invited to attend and monitor the vote, and she has called on the other candidates to publicly support the proposal.
“Backing this motion is a simple yet powerful way for each of us to show that we are committed to a fair and credible process. I urge my fellow candidates to join me in standing up for transparency. If we cannot collectively commit to this, it surely raises serious questions about what kind of leadership we are offering the tourism sector going forward.”
UN Tourism Leadership Vote: Gloria Guevara Calls for Independent Observers | AviationGhana
