UN announces slate of candidates to succeed Secretary‑General António Guterres

The United Nations is preparing to appoint its next Secretary‑General as António Guterres' term ends on 31 December 2026. Five official candidates have been nominated so far, including International Atomic Energy Agency Director‑General Rafael Mariano Grossi from Argentina, former presidents of Chile backed by Brazil and Mexico, former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michele Bachelet, and other nominees from Burundi, Costa Rica, Antigua and Barbuda and Ecuador.

Interviews with the candidates were held at the UN General Assembly in New York on 21‑22 April, with a further interview scheduled for 15 June for a late‑submitted nominee. Formal consultations will begin in June at the Security Council, followed by indicative votes in July. The General Assembly will ultimately elect the Secretary‑General based on the Security Council’s recommendation, with the process expected to conclude by the end of the year.