Is the UN Finally Ready for a Woman at the Helm? The 2026 Secretary-General Race and the Future of Multilateralism

The United Nations, an organization built on the principles of equality and global cooperation, stands at a critical juncture. As public trust in multilateral institutions wanes and geopolitical tensions escalate, the 2026 race for Secretary-General (S-G) takes on unprecedented significance. For the first time, there’s a concerted push – and viable candidates – to break an 80-year-old barrier: electing a woman to lead the world’s foremost international body.

The Crisis of Confidence in Multilateralism

Recent years have seen a decline in faith in international organizations. From perceived failures in conflict resolution to bureaucratic inefficiencies and funding shortfalls, the UN faces a legitimacy crisis. A 2023 Gallup poll revealed that global confidence in the UN is at a historic low, with only 52% of respondents expressing trust. This erosion of trust coincides with a rise in nationalism and unilateralism, making effective global governance more challenging than ever.

Pro Tip: Understanding the root causes of this declining trust – perceived ineffectiveness, lack of representation, and bureaucratic hurdles – is crucial for any future S-G, regardless of gender.

Why a Woman Could Restore Credibility

Experts argue that a female S-G could signal a much-needed shift in leadership style and priorities. Research consistently demonstrates that women leaders often excel in areas critical for navigating today’s complex challenges: collaboration, empathy, and conflict resolution. A study by the Peterson Institute for International Economics found that companies with more women on their boards consistently outperform those with fewer, suggesting a correlation between gender diversity and improved performance. Applying this logic to the UN, a woman at the helm could foster a more inclusive and effective approach to global problem-solving.

The Contenders: Bachelet, Grynspan, and Grossi

Currently, three candidates have emerged: Michelle Bachelet (Chile), Rebeca Grynspan (Costa Rica), and Rafael Grossi (Argentina). Bachelet, a former President of Chile and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, brings extensive experience in both national leadership and international advocacy. Grynspan, currently the Secretary-General of UNCTAD, has a strong track record in economic development and trade. Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, offers expertise in nuclear security and non-proliferation.

While Grossi’s candidacy challenges the push for a female leader, the momentum appears to be building behind Bachelet and Grynspan. The fact that the Presidents of the General Assembly and the Security Council have explicitly encouraged nominations of women candidates is a significant departure from past practices.

The Power Dynamics: The P5 and the Veto

The biggest obstacle to electing a female S-G remains the influence of the UN Security Council’s five permanent members (P5): China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Historically, the P5 have wielded their veto power to block candidates they deem unfavorable, often prioritizing geopolitical interests over gender equality. The 2016 election, where several highly qualified female candidates were sidelined, serves as a stark reminder of this dynamic.

Did you know? The P5’s veto power isn’t explicitly mentioned in the UN Charter, but it has become an established norm since the organization’s founding.

Recent Reforms and Increased Transparency

Recent reforms aimed at increasing transparency in the selection process – including the public release of candidate CVs and vision statements – are a step in the right direction. However, these measures alone are unlikely to overcome the P5’s influence. Building early consensus around a single, strong female candidate and actively engaging with P5 representatives will be crucial.

Navigating a World in Crisis: Key Priorities for the Next S-G

The next S-G will inherit a daunting array of challenges. Climate change, armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, and a growing financial shortfall demand urgent attention. The UN currently faces a staggering $760 million in unpaid assessments and a $577 million budget shortfall, severely hindering its ability to implement critical programs. Furthermore, only 18% of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are currently on track to be met by 2030.

Key priorities for the next S-G will include:

• Strengthening Preventative Diplomacy: Addressing the root causes of conflict and preventing escalation.
• Mobilizing Climate Finance: Securing the $1.3 trillion needed to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
• Revitalizing the SDGs: Finding innovative solutions to accelerate progress towards the 2030 Agenda.
• Addressing the Financial Crisis: Ensuring the UN has the resources it needs to fulfill its mandate.

The Latin American Opportunity

If the principle of regional rotation is upheld, the next S-G should come from Latin America. This region has recently demonstrated a growing commitment to inclusive governance with the election of Claudia Sheinbaum in Mexico and Xiomara Castro in Honduras – both female presidents. Sheinbaum’s focus on gender equality and the establishment of a dedicated ministry for women’s issues signals a potential shift in regional priorities.

FAQ: The 2026 S-G Race

Q: What is the role of the Secretary-General?
A: The S-G is the chief administrative officer of the UN, responsible for shaping global priorities, mobilizing action, and representing the organization on the world stage.

Q: What is the P5 and why are they important?
A: The P5 (China, France, Russia, the UK, and the US) are the permanent members of the UN Security Council and hold veto power over resolutions.

Q: Why hasn’t there been a female S-G before?
A: Historically, the P5 have favored male candidates, often citing geopolitical considerations and implicit gender bias.

Q: What can be done to increase the chances of a woman being elected?
A: Building early consensus around a single strong female candidate, engaging with P5 members, and increasing transparency in the selection process are crucial steps.

Looking Ahead

The 2026 S-G election represents a pivotal moment for the United Nations. Electing a woman would not only rectify a historical injustice but also signal a commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and effective global leadership. The challenges facing the world are immense, but with a strong and capable leader at the helm, the UN can regain its credibility and fulfill its vital role in building a more peaceful and sustainable future.

Want to learn more? Explore the Global Governance Innovation Network’s research on the future of multilateralism: https://globalgovernanceforum.org/

Share your thoughts! What qualities do you think are most important for the next UN Secretary-General? Leave a comment below.