The Minister of Tourism, Ms. Olga Kefalogianni, participated in the 124th Session of the Executive Board of the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), where Greece was re-elected as the first country in terms of number of votes from the European Region. The Summit was held in Riyadh, in the presence of ministers and delegations of all the Organization’s member states.
During her speech, the Minister emphasized that global tourism is on the threshold of a new era, which will be characterized by innovation but also significant challenges. She underlined the need for the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) to strengthen its role within the United Nations system and to become an even more influential international organization.
Greece’s Position on the Budget and Operation of the Organization
Referring to the Draft Work Programme and Budget 2026-2027, Ms. Kefalogianni pointed out that the Organization is at a critical crossroads, as the purchasing power of the core budget has decreased significantly over the last fifteen years, due to inflation and the zero nominal growth policy.
She stressed that, despite the ambitious aspirations, there are also significant financial constraints that must be taken into account.
The Minister, representing Greece, voted against the 4% increase in assessed contributions proposed by the Program and Budget Committee, suggesting an increase of 2%, and highlighting the need for a balanced approach that would ensure the sustainability of the Organization without further burdening its members.
Greece’s proposal for a modest 2% increase, supported by many members, including Italy, Lithuania and Indonesia, prevailed in the vote that followed.
Ms. Kefalogianni added that consensus among States is a prerequisite for the effective functioning of the Organization. She also underlined the importance of clear programming and prioritization of actions, noting that any potential increase must be linked to a realistic implementation plan, a clear timetable and measurable results.
As she stated, “effective management of resources and strengthening of accountability are essential prerequisites for better results and greater transparency.” She finally stressed that Greece expects the Organization’s next budget reports to clearly reflect the priorities, timetables and progress indicators of the actions.
Greece’s contribution to international initiatives for the future of tourism
Regarding the report on the Organization’s Regional and Thematic Offices, the Minister said that it is appropriate to ensure that they also function as mechanisms to strengthen the coherence and responsibilities of the Regional Committees.
She pointed out that, in the context of the ongoing effort to improve the effectiveness of UN Tourism, it is appropriate to review the role of the Regional Committees, so that they also function as mechanisms to strengthen their coherence and responsibilities.
Ms. Kefalogianni reiterated that Greece remains firmly committed to the principles of the Organization and to the importance of meaningful consultation that must precede any decision by the Executive Board or the General Assembly. The creation of Regional and Thematic Secretariats, she underlined, should ensure continuity, regional “ownership” and effective implementation of the Organization’s Work Programme.
Referring to the Riyadh Declaration on the Future of Tourism, the Minister described it as an initiative that reflects the readiness of the global tourism sector to embrace digital and technological transformation, while maintaining ethical, inclusive and sustainable principles.
She emphasized that she is strengthening the role of UN Tourism as a central innovation and policy guidance body, while recognizing Saudi Arabia’s contribution to promoting the debate on artificial intelligence and the sustainable development of the sector. The Minister expressed Greece’s satisfaction with the final text, which incorporates its proposals on innovation and the use of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of global tourism.
The interventions of the Minister of Tourism at the Riyadh Summit highlighted Greece’s firm commitment to the principles of sustainable development, transparency and cooperation, confirming the country’s position as a reliable and active partner on the international tourism map.
