The race to become the next United Nations secretary-general has taken a significant turn as former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet withdraws her candidacy. Her decision follows a decline in support during an informal straw poll conducted by the UN Security Council.
Bachelet, who is 74 and has served two terms as Chilean president, announced her withdrawal on Saturday. She had hoped to succeed António Guterres, whose current term as UN secretary-general ends on December 31. Bachelet’s campaign focused on promoting multilateralism and international law, drawing on her experience as a former UN human rights chief.
With Bachelet stepping aside, seven candidates remain in the running for the position. However, the field is not yet closed, as additional contenders could still enter the race. The latest informal Security Council poll has positioned Costa Rican diplomat Rebeca Grynspan as the leading candidate.
The process for selecting the next UN secretary-general involves the Security Council recommending a candidate to the 193-member UN General Assembly, which then formally elects the leader. This system underscores the importance of securing broad international support within the UN framework.
Bachelet’s withdrawal reshapes the dynamics of the contest, spotlighting Grynspan and other candidates as the focus shifts to the remaining contenders. The ongoing selection process remains a critical event in global governance, with the outcome influencing the direction of international cooperation and policy-making.