For the first time in a decade, the United Nations is set to elect a new Secretary-General. Incumbent António Guterres will end his second term on December 31. Six candidates are vying to replace him, facing a daunting task as the UN's relevance, financial power, and authority come under increasing scrutiny.
The UN describes its Secretary-General as 'equal parts diplomat and advocate, civil servant and CEO.' The role oversees key organs, including the Security Council, which is responsible for maintaining peace and security. The winner is selected by the General Assembly on the recommendation of the Security Council, making the path to victory narrow and fraught with challenges.
Former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet (74) aims to become the first female UN chief. She served as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights from 2018 to 2022, gaining experience in major geopolitical issues. Bachelet admits she has no 'magic formula' but sees her experience as a key asset.
Argentine diplomat Rafael Grossi (63), director general of the IAEA, views his nuclear background as an advantage. He supports the UN80 reform initiative and advocates for streamlining the organization by merging entities and reducing duplication to cut costs.
Ecuadorian María Fernanda Espinosa (61), a former foreign minister and UN General Assembly president, is an expert on sustainable development. She acknowledges the UN's financial challenges and warns it must 'reform, transform or die,' proposing closer collaboration with regional organizations and Europe.
Costa Rican Rebeca Grynspan (69), head of UNCTAD, played a key role in the Ukrainian grain deal. She urges the UN to be bolder and calls for broader Security Council representation, particularly from Africa and Latin America.
Former Senegalese President Macky Sall (64) led his country from 2012 to 2024, overseeing infrastructure improvements. However, protests and an attempt to postpone elections have made him a divisive figure at home. Senegal's government initially did not support his candidacy but later reversed its stance.
Guyanese diplomat Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett (58) entered the race in mid-June. She is Guyana's permanent representative to the UN and a former foreign minister. Her vision focuses on strengthening multilateralism and ensuring the UN can address contemporary challenges.
Source: www.dw.com