UN holds candidate debate to choose Guterres successor amid financial crisis

The race to select the next United Nations secretary-general entered a decisive phase as six candidates took part in a debate at the General Assembly, against the backdrop of a severe financial crisis, declining trust in the organization, and mounting pressure from US President Donald Trump's administration. The Security Council is preparing for its first straw poll to choose Antonio Guterres's successor.

The debate featured six candidates: Michelle Bachelet of Chile, María Fernanda Espinosa of Ecuador, Rafael Grossi of Argentina, Rebeca Grynspan of Costa Rica, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett of Guyana, and Macky Sall of Senegal. Over 90 minutes, the candidates answered questions from diplomats, UN staff, and civil society representatives. So far, no clear frontrunner has emerged in the contest.

General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock said the debate offered a rare chance to hear the candidates' ideas, priorities, and vision for one of the world's most important positions. She stressed that the UN needs exceptional leadership capable of adapting the organization to 21st-century challenges and strongly defending its Charter and three pillars: peace and security, human rights, and development.

The United Nations faces criticism from the Trump administration over spending and overlapping roles, with Washington urging the organization to focus on peace and security, while other countries emphasize the importance of all three pillars. Permanent members of the Security Council, including the US, hold veto power in the selection process, forcing candidates to balance American demands with the positions of other states.

Analyst Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group noted that this year's race lacks the momentum seen in 2016, as candidates seek to avoid antagonizing major powers. The candidates have previously faced intense questioning from member state representatives, where they highlighted the need for reform and the secretary-general's role in promoting peace.

The Security Council is scheduled to hold its first secret straw poll on July 30 to gauge support for the candidates. Voting rounds will continue until one candidate secures nine votes without a veto from any permanent member, after which the name will be forwarded to the General Assembly for formal appointment. The new secretary-general will take office in January 2027.

Many diplomats have yet to make their final choices. Gowan sees Rafael Grossi as a leading contender, but the race remains open, with candidates like Grynspan and Rodrigues-Birkett also in contention. Surprises remain possible, with other names circulating, such as Gianni Infantino, whom reports suggest Trump would like to see nominated.

Latin American countries are calling for one of their nationals to hold the post this term, while several states are advocating for a woman to be appointed for the first time, in line with the tradition of non-binding geographic rotation.