The process to elect the new Secretary-General of the UN has begun, with four candidates in the running: Chilean Michelle Bachelet, Argentine Rafael Grossi, Costa Rican Rebeca Grynspan, and Senegalese Macky Sall. This election takes place in a context of global crisis, with active conflicts and an organization facing questions about its effectiveness and credibility.
During the interactive dialogues held on April 21 and 22, the candidates presented their visions to the 193 member states. Although the General Assembly votes, the selection of the new leader depends on a recommendation from the Security Council, raising concerns about the influence of major powers in the process. Bachelet and Grynspan could be the first women to hold the position.
Grynspan, the current head of UNCTAD, advocates for a more inclusive approach, while Bachelet, former president of Chile, emphasizes the importance of dialogue and multilateralism. Meanwhile, Grossi and Sall have proposed significant reforms to strengthen the UN system.
The timeline indicates that the Council will debate the nominations at the end of July, with a decision expected between August and October. The election is unfolding at a critical moment, where the UN’s ability to maintain peace is at the center of the debate, as highlighted in other analyses of the global situation, including the recent suspension of classes in Huarmaca.
