NEW YORK — In its 80 years of existence, the United Nations has never had a woman serve as Secretary-General. For many world leaders, that glaring reality is no longer acceptable.
With current Secretary-General António Guterres set to end his second term in 2026, voices at this week’s UN General Assembly grew louder: the next leader of the UN must be a woman.
Estonian President Alar Karis did not mince words.
“It is high time for a woman to be chosen as UN Secretary-General,” he said, urging for a fair and transparent process to restore credibility to the institution.
So far, all nine UN leaders have been men.
Slovenia’s President Nataša Pirc Musar stressed the need to break history’s pattern. She pointed out that only five women have ever led the UN General Assembly, including the current president.
“By the end of this session, she should be joined by a Madam Secretary-General-elect. Let’s make history,” she declared.
Pushing for Change
Traditionally, the UN Security Council — dominated by veto-wielding powers like the US, China, and Russia — works behind closed doors to recommend a candidate. But in recent years, the General Assembly has demanded more openness, including public nominations and circulation of candidates’ CVs.
Mongolia’s President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh added that putting women in top UN posts would foster “more transparent, balanced, and inclusive decision-making.”
Latin America Steps Forward
Geography also plays a role in the selection. After Guterres of Portugal was elected in 2016, the position was supposed to go to Eastern Europe. Next in line is Latin America, and many leaders say their region is ready.
Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader said the region has the “capacity and diversity” to lead on peace, climate justice, human rights, and sustainable development.
“I am fully convinced that the time has come for a woman to take up the post,” he said.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric went further, openly endorsing former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet for the role. Bachelet, who watched from the audience, has a long résumé: Chile’s first female president, former UN Women chief, and ex-UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
“She can build bridges between North and South, East and West,” Boric said passionately.
The Road Ahead
The next UN Secretary-General will be chosen in 2026 and will begin their term on January 1, 2027. For many, it’s a chance to not only restore balance in leadership but also make history.
And if these leaders have their way, the United Nations could finally see something it never has before: a woman at the helm of global diplomacy.
