Michelle Bachelet withdraws UN Secretary-General candidacy

The candidacy of former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet for the position of United Nations Secretary-General has ended following unsuccessful informal polls within the UN Security Council. Reports indicate Bachelet received one vote of support and eleven votes of discouragement, leading to her withdrawal from the race.

The outcome has triggered significant political debate in Chile. Members of the Republican Party have called for the return of state funds, alleging approximately $50 million pesos were allocated to support the campaign. Meanwhile, political figures in Chile are discussing Bachelet’s future role within the domestic opposition. Former Minister Cecilia Pérez defended the former president, attributing the failure to the current global climate regarding multilateralism.

In Mexico, President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed regret over the outcome but defended Mexico’s decision to support Bachelet. Sheinbaum emphasized the need for deep reform within the United Nations, particularly regarding the concentration of power in the Security Council's permanent members. As the race for the 2027 succession continues, Mexico is expected to reassess its diplomatic position through coordination with other nations like Brazil.