Russia has been booted out of yet another body under the United Nations, this time from the orld Tourism Organization after previously losing its place at the Human Rights Council. This comes as its ‘military operation’ in Ukraine has entered its third month at day 63. Members of the UNWTO General Assembly were to discuss the suspension of the Russian Federation from the body as decided in an emergency meeting of the UNWTO Executive Council last month. The Russia delegate did not defend the country’s position and announced its withdrawal before the session began.
The Secretary General of the UNWTO, Zurab Pololikashvili, stated that “Tourism is a pillar of peace and international friendship, and Members of UNWTO must uphold these values or face consequences, with no exceptions”. He further added that Russia’s actions were “indefensible and contrary to the very principles of UNWTO and international governance”
The suspension of Russia will mean that it will no longer be able to access the services of the 99-country body that develops tourism on an international level, will be excluded from its meetings and events, the right to nominate members to its statutory bodies, etc.
A suspension of a member country can occur by a two-thirds vote in the UNWTO’s General Assembly and must be withdrawn by the same process.
For the full press release, go here.
Latest Videos
