Liberia has officially regained full membership in the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). This ends more than 13 years of inactivity and reaffirming the country’s commitment to reestablishing its leadership role in global tourism.
According to a press release, the reinstatement follows two weeks of sustained diplomatic engagement led by the Liberia National Tourism Authority (LNTA), under the leadership of Director General-designate, Princess Eva Cooper and Deputy Director General-designate for Planning Atty. Dogba K. Norris.
The latest development is the result of efforts and visionary leadership under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., whose ARREST Agenda identifies tourism as a key driver of inclusive growth and national renewal. The release indicated that that President Boakai has made revitalizing the tourism sector a national priority.
Liberia’s return to UN Tourism follows the submission of a proposed ten-year payment plan and high-level consultations with the organization’s secretariat. The reinstatement includes an exemption that allows Liberia to exercise full membership rights — including voting privileges — pending formal approval by the UN Tourism General Assembly.
Liberia National Tourism Authority Director General-designate, Princess Eva Cooper described the reinstatement as a major milestone for Liberia’s tourism revival. Full membership grants Liberia access to UN Tourism programs, policy forums, and funding opportunities, as well as training, marketing, and development support. It also opens new avenues for international visibility, investment, and partnerships in the tourism sector
