The process to select the tenth Secretary-General of the United Nations has officially commenced. The individual chosen will succeed António Guterres, with their term beginning on January 1, 2027.
A joint communication from the 15-member Security Council and the President of the 193-member General Assembly has been disseminated to all member states. This message formally invites nations to submit nominations for the esteemed position.
Diversity and Gender Equality Emphasized
The communication explicitly states, “Expressing our regret that no woman has ever held the position of Secretary-General, and believing in the necessity of ensuring equal opportunities for women and men in accessing high-level decision-making positions, we encourage Member States to strongly consider nominating women, and note the importance of regional diversity in the selection of the Secretary-General.”
Selection Process Timeline
The Security Council is expected to initiate its selection process by the end of July 2026. A consensus among the five permanent members of the Council – the United States, Russia, Britain, China, and France – is mandatory for a candidate to proceed.
Following the Security Council’s recommendation, the General Assembly will then elect the Secretary-General for a five-year term. This term is renewable once, offering the elected individual the potential to serve for a maximum of ten years.
The individual selected will face a complex global landscape, requiring strong diplomatic skills and a commitment to the UN’s core principles. The position is vital for maintaining international peace and security, promoting sustainable development, and upholding human rights.
The eyes of the world will be watching as this crucial selection process unfolds.
