United Nations: US calls for reform and new Secretary-General candidate

United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, has called for a refocusing of the UN's priorities toward peace and security. Following the sixth informal vote by the Security Council, held under the Greek presidency, Waltz emphasized the need to select the most qualified candidate for the position of Secretary-General.

Waltz suggested that the organization needs to undergo a period of streamlining, stating that after 80 years, the UN has “tried to be everything to everyone” and metaphorically needs to go on a “diet” to increase efficiency and reduce bureaucracy. Regarding the selection process, he declined to confirm support for any of the seven current candidates, noting that the U.S. seeks “simply the best candidate,” regardless of gender.

In the recent informal voting results, Rebecca Ginsburg maintained a lead with nine votes in favor and five against. Rafael Grossi and Caroline Rodrigues Birkett each received eight votes in favor and six against. Both Grossi and Birkett also faced two negative votes from permanent members of the Security Council.