The Race for UN Secretary-General: Who Will Lead Next?

The United Nations will elect a new Secretary-General next year, with the formal process beginning when the Security Council and General Assembly solicit nominations. Potential candidates include Michelle Bachelet, Rebeca Grynspan, and Rafael Grossi. The selection involves secret ballots and ultimately requires agreement from the five permanent Security Council members.

The United Nations is preparing for a significant transition as it gears up to elect a new Secretary-General next year. The five-year term will commence on January 1, 2027, replacing the current chief, Antonio Guterres. The formal race will launch once the Security Council and the president of the General Assembly send a letter calling for nominations.

Traditionally, the position rotates among global regions, but there may be deviations this time. Leading contenders emerged, such as Michelle Bachelet from Chile, Rebeca Grynspan of Costa Rica, and Argentina's Rafael Grossi. These candidates bring substantial credentials, having previously held significant roles within both their respective countries and the UN framework.

The selection process is intricate, involving secret ballots in the Security Council. A candidate requires encouragement from the council and ultimately the approval of the five permanent veto-wielders: the United States, Russia, Britain, China, and France. Transparency has been a focus, with new guidelines for vision statements and campaign conduct, emphasizing the desire for a future female Secretary-General.

(With inputs from agencies.)