BY EMMANUEL OGBONNA
The process to select the next secretary-general of the United Nations is gaining momentum as candidates position themselves ahead of a decision that will shape the institution’s leadership for the next five years. The successor to António Guterres is set to assume office on January 1, 2027, at a time of heightened geopolitical tension, economic uncertainty, and growing scrutiny over the effectiveness of multilateral institutions.
Several prominent figures with extensive diplomatic and political experience have emerged as contenders, each presenting distinct visions for the future of the United Nations and its role in addressing global challenges.
Among the leading candidates is Rafael Grossi, a veteran Argentine diplomat who has led the International Atomic Energy Agency for the past six years. Grossi has built a reputation as an active and visible international negotiator, particularly in matters related to nuclear security and conflict mediation. His tenure has included efforts to preserve elements of the Iran nuclear agreement following the United States’ withdrawal in 2018, as well as high-profile missions during the Russia-Ukraine war.
One of Grossi’s most notable achievements has been securing a continued presence for IAEA inspectors at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine, a site that became a focal point of international concern amid ongoing conflict. His approach has emphasized direct engagement and sustained dialogue, though critics argue that his willingness to negotiate with contentious actors risks undermining stricter enforcement standards.
Fluent in multiple languages and known for his diplomatic mobility, Grossi has sought to project himself as a pragmatic problem-solver capable of navigating the competing interests of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council—the United States, Russia, China, Britain, and France—whose support is essential in determining the final outcome of the selection process.
Another prominent candidate is Rebeca Grynspan, an economist and former vice president of Costa Rica who currently leads the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. Grynspan has framed her candidacy around reforming and modernizing multilateral institutions while reinforcing their foundational commitments to development, human rights, and peace.
Drawing on personal and professional experiences shaped by global displacement in the aftermath of World War II, Grynspan has emphasized the enduring importance of international cooperation. She has temporarily stepped back from her UNCTAD responsibilities during the campaign period, citing the need to avoid conflicts of interest, in contrast to some other candidates who continue to hold their current roles.
If selected, Grynspan would become the first woman to serve as secretary-general, a milestone that has long been advocated by supporters of gender parity in global governance. She has described her leadership style as collaborative and adaptive, focused on strengthening the United Nations’ ability to respond effectively to complex, interconnected challenges.
Michelle Bachelet, a two-time president of Chile and former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, is also seeking the position. Bachelet brings extensive experience in both national leadership and international human rights advocacy, having also led UN Women earlier in her career.
Her candidacy, however, has encountered political headwinds. Chile’s current government has withdrawn its formal backing following a shift in domestic political priorities, although Bachelet continues to receive support from other regional powers, including Brazil and Mexico. She has also faced criticism from some U.S. political figures over her record on human rights issues, particularly regarding past assessments of China’s policies toward Uyghur Muslims.
Despite these challenges, Bachelet remains a significant figure in the race, with a platform centered on social justice, gender equality, and the protection of fundamental rights.
From Africa, Macky Sall has entered the contest, bringing more than a decade of experience as Senegal’s head of state. Sall has highlighted his background in governance and development, pointing to infrastructure expansion and economic initiatives undertaken during his presidency.
He has positioned himself as an advocate for the Global South, calling for reforms to the Security Council that would expand representation for developing nations. His campaign underscores the need to address debt burdens and structural inequalities that affect many countries, particularly in Africa.
Sall’s candidacy has received mixed reactions within the continent, with varying levels of support from regional powers. Nonetheless, his emphasis on institutional reform and inclusive governance reflects broader demands from developing nations for a more equitable international system.
The selection process for secretary-general is expected to involve complex negotiations among member states, particularly the Security Council’s permanent members, whose approval is decisive. As the race unfolds, candidates are likely to intensify diplomatic outreach while refining their proposals for addressing global crises ranging from armed conflict to climate change and economic instability.
With the international order facing significant strain, the choice of the next secretary-general is widely seen as a pivotal moment for the United Nations, one that will test its ability to adapt and remain relevant in an increasingly fragmented world.
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