Ivonne Baki and Michelle Bachelet campaign for UN Secretary-General

Candidates for the position of United Nations Secretary-General are outlining their visions for the future of the multilateral organization.

Ivonne Baki, the former Ecuadorian minister and ambassador, has officially presented her candidacy representing the Kingdom of Tonga. Drawing on her experience living through the civil war in Lebanon and her extensive diplomatic career in Washington, Qatar, France, and Monaco, Baki emphasized her commitment to peace. She stated that if the UN cannot prevent wars, such as the conflict in Ukraine, it must find solutions that are effective and minimize loss of life. Baki pledged to visit conflict zones, including Gaza and Israel, if elected.

Former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet has also campaigned for the role, emphasizing the need for independence and the avoidance of double standards. Bachelet, who previously served as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, argued that the Secretary-General must build bridges and facilitate dialogue even amidst deep differences. She stated her intention to work with all member states regardless of their size or power, asserting that every country deserves a respected voice within the UN framework.