Upcoming UN Secretary-General Selection Sparks Reform Talks

As António Guterres's second term as United Nations Secretary-General approaches its conclusion on December 31, 2026, the international community is preparing for a selection process that could significantly influence the organization's future direction. This upcoming appointment is particularly critical given the UN's foundational mission to prevent global conflicts and mediate in crises.

Historically, the selection of the UN Secretary-General has been characterized by a lack of transparency, with decisions predominantly made behind closed doors by the five permanent members of the Security Council: China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This opaque process has often led to criticisms regarding its exclusivity and the limited involvement of the broader UN membership.

In response to these concerns, significant reforms were introduced in 2015 to enhance the transparency and inclusivity of the selection process. For the first time, all 193 UN member states were invited to participate actively. The General Assembly and the Security Council jointly issued a letter to member states, encouraging them to nominate candidates and emphasizing the importance of considering women for the position. Additionally, informal dialogues and meetings with candidates were organized, allowing member states to engage directly with potential appointees. This shift was seen as a watershed moment in the way the UN conducts its selection process.

As the end of Guterres's term approaches, discussions regarding the upcoming selection process have intensified. In June 2025, South Africa and Romania circulated a proposal aimed at further improving the selection process. Key elements of this proposal include:

• Active Consideration by the General Assembly: Ensuring that the General Assembly plays a proactive role in considering recommendations from the Security Council, rather than merely endorsing decisions.

• Transparency in Deputy Secretary-General Selection: Encouraging candidates to disclose their intended choice for Deputy Secretary-General during their campaign to promote transparency, gender balance, and regional representation.

• High-Profile Swearing-In Ceremony: Proposing that the Secretary-General-designate be sworn in during a dedicated session of the High-Level General Debate in September, in the presence of Heads of State and Government, to boost political and public interest in the role.

• Gender Representation: Highlighting the fact that no woman has ever held the position of Secretary-General in the UN's 80-year history and calling upon member states to strongly consider nominating women for the position in the upcoming and subsequent selection processes.

The selection of the next Secretary-General carries significant social and societal implications:

• Gender Equality: Appointing a woman to the position would mark a historic milestone in gender representation at the highest levels of international diplomacy.

• Regional Representation: Electing a candidate from underrepresented regions, such as the Caribbean, would promote inclusivity and reflect the diverse membership of the UN.

• Global Leadership: The chosen Secretary-General will play a crucial role in addressing pressing global challenges, including climate change, conflicts, and human rights issues.

The selection of the next UN Secretary-General is a defining moment for the organization. The global community's commitment to a transparent, inclusive process will be instrumental in appointing a leader capable of navigating the complexities of contemporary international relations.