UN formally launches selection process for next secretary-general

The United Nations formally started the selection and appointment process for the next UN secretary-general on Tuesday.

Annalena Baerbock, president of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), said in a statement that she has signed a joint letter with President of the UN Security Council for the month of November, Michael Imran Kanu, permanent representative of Sierra Leone to the United Nations, formally initiating the selection and appointment process for the next UN secretary-general, who will take over the role from January 1, 2027. 

The letter underscores that the role of secretary-general demands the highest standards of efficiency, competence and integrity, along with strong leadership, diplomatic communication and multilingual abilities.

As no woman has ever served as UN chief, the letter urges Member States to strongly consider nominating women to advance gender equality in senior decision-making roles. Regional diversity will also be an important factor in the selection.

To enhance transparency, candidates must submit a vision statement and disclose funding sources at the time of nomination, the letter states.

The presidents of the General Assembly and the Security Council will jointly maintain a public list of candidates, who are provided opportunities for informal dialogues, including livestreamed interactions.

The UNGA president said that the selection of the next secretary-general comes at a pivotal moment for the United Nations, and that the world is looking to the next UN chief to provide strong leadership that will render the organization fit for the future.

Antonio Guterres, the current and ninth secretary-general of the United Nations, took office in January 2017.

The Security Council plans to begin its selection rounds in late July 2026 before making a recommendation to the General Assembly. Member States are encouraged to submit nominations early to allow adequate time for the process.

(With input from Xinhua)