Alain St. Ange of the Seychelles is among the candidates for the top role with the UNWTO

The secretariat of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation has confirmed the final candidates for the post of secretary general of the body.

Former Seychelles tourism minister Alain St. Ange is an early favourite, with his bid backed by the government of Seychelles.

Also in the running are Armenian Vahan Martirosyan, Márcio Favilla from Brazil, Colombian Jaime Alberto Cabal Sanclemente, and Georgian Zurab Pololikashvili.

South Korean Young-shim Dho and Zimbabwean Walter Mzembi complete the field.

The successful candidate will be chosen later this year.

The new secretary general will replace incumbent Taleb Rifai and will serve in the role from 2018-2021.