28/10/2025
Liberia Regains Full Membership in UN Tourism After 13 Years
After more than a decade of inactivity, Liberia has officially regained full membership in the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), marking a historic return to the global tourism stage.
According to a release, this milestone reflects the decisive leadership of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., whose ARREST Agenda identifies tourism as a key driver of inclusive economic growth and national renewal. Within his first year, President Boakai appointed Ambassador Christopher Hayes Onanuga as Presidential Special Envoy on Tourism and advanced the Liberia National Tourism Authority (LNTA) Act of 2025, creating a strong institutional foundation for the sector.
The release added that under Director General-Designate Princess Eva Cooper and Deputy DG-Designate Atty. Dogba K. Norris, the LNTA prioritized reinstating Liberia’s membership in UN Tourism. Through two weeks of intense dialogue, diplomatic engagement, and submission of a ten-year payment plan, Liberia’s full membership was restored after 13 years of non-compliance.
The statement said the reinstatement immediately restores Liberia’s voting rights and access to UN Tourism’s global programs, including technical assistance, training, and funding for sustainable tourism projects.
“This achievement is a testament to President Boakai’s vision to reposition tourism as a national priority,” said Cooper. “Liberia’s story is one of renewal, resilience, and rediscovery.”
With its coastline, forests, culture, and creativity now poised for global exposure, Liberia’s “sleeping giant” has truly awakened—ushering in a new era for tourism and national pride.
