Who's in the Running for the Next UN Leader?
The United Nations is gearing up for a significant transition in 2027. A new Secretary-General will take the helm, and the selection process is about to begin. This role is akin to the CEO of the UN, overseeing thousands of staff and major peacekeeping efforts.
Selection Process
The selection process is somewhat enigmatic. It begins when the Security Council and the General Assembly issue a letter inviting countries to nominate their candidates. This letter is anticipated by the end of the year. Traditionally, the position rotates among different regions, and this time, it is Latin America's turn. However, there is speculation that candidates from other regions may also enter the race.
Potential Candidates
Several names are already being considered:
- Michelle Bachelet - Former President of Chile and ex-High Commissioner for Human Rights.
- Rebeca Grynspan - Costa Rican politician and economist, currently leading the UN Conference on Trade and Development.
- Rafael Grossi - Argentine diplomat and head of the International Atomic Energy Agency.
The Voting Process
The actual selection process is shrouded in secrecy. The Security Council conducts secret votes, known as straw polls, until a consensus is reached. The five permanent members—the United States, Russia, Britain, China, and France—hold the final say. It can take several rounds of voting to achieve a consensus. Once the Security Council selects a candidate, the General Assembly typically approves it without much debate.
Push for Transparency and Diversity
The UN has been striving to make the process more transparent. Candidates are now expected to share their vision and funding sources. There is also a strong push to appoint the first female Secretary-General in the UN's 80-year history. The General Assembly has encouraged countries to nominate women, highlighting that no woman has held the position yet.
The Role of the Secretary-General
The Secretary-General's role is a blend of diplomacy, advocacy, and administration. They oversee a massive budget and peacekeeping operations but have limited power over military decisions or sanctions. Many diplomats note that the veto-wielding countries prefer a "secretary" over a "general."