Six Candidates Vying to Become the Next UN Secretary After Guterres

As the current term of United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres draws to a close, six candidates have emerged as potential successors. This week, we examine their backgrounds, stances on key global issues, diplomatic experience, regional representation, and visions for the future of the UN.

Who’s Running?

The six candidates vying to become the next UN Secretary-General are António Costa, former Portuguese Prime Minister; Nana Akufo-Addo, current President of Ghana; Douglas Alexander, former British Foreign Secretary; Tommy Remengesau Jr., President of Palau; Franz Timmermann, German Green Party politician and former European Commissioner for Development; and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, former President of Indonesia. Each candidate brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the table.

António Costa is a seasoned politician who served as Prime Minister of Portugal from 2015 to 2022. He has experience working at the European level, having held various positions within the European Commission and Parliament. Nana Akufo-Addo has a long history in African politics, serving as President of Ghana since 2017 and previously as Attorney General from 2001 to 2003.

Douglas Alexander brings a wealth of experience from his time as British Foreign Secretary from 2009 to 2010. He also served as International Development Secretary from 2008 to 2009, where he played a key role in shaping the UK’s development policy. Tommy Remengesau Jr., President of Palau since 2013, has worked extensively on issues related to climate change, ocean conservation, and sustainable development.

Franz Timmermann, as a former European Commissioner for Development from 2004 to 2008, brings significant experience in international cooperation and development policy. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, the third President of Indonesia since its transition to democracy, has a strong background in regional diplomacy, having served as Co-Chair of the ASEAN-UN Summit in 2011.

The Contenders’ Stances on Global Issues

Each candidate has staked out their position on key global issues. António Costa has emphasized his commitment to addressing climate change and reducing poverty, while also highlighting the importance of promoting peace and security through multilateral cooperation. Nana Akufo-Addo has focused on issues related to sustainable development, economic growth, and conflict resolution.

Douglas Alexander has underlined the need for a more effective response to humanitarian crises, particularly in refugee contexts. Tommy Remengesau Jr. has stressed his commitment to addressing climate change through action-oriented approaches, emphasizing Palau’s efforts to transition to renewable energy sources.

Franz Timmermann has emphasized the importance of multilateralism and cooperation on issues such as migration, inequality, and pandemics. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has highlighted his experience in building regional partnerships and promoting peace and stability through ASEAN and other regional forums.

Diplomatic Experience and Track Records

The candidates’ diplomatic experience is undoubtedly one of their strongest assets. António Costa has a long history of working within the European Union, having held various positions at the Commission and Parliament levels. Nana Akufo-Addo has extensive experience in African politics and diplomacy, with a focus on regional cooperation and peacebuilding.

Douglas Alexander brings a strong track record from his time as Foreign Secretary, where he played a key role in shaping UK foreign policy. Tommy Remengesau Jr.’s presidency of Palau has given him unique insights into the challenges faced by small-island developing states.

Franz Timmermann’s experience as European Commissioner for Development will be valuable in addressing global development issues. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono’s leadership in ASEAN and his experience with regional forums will undoubtedly bring a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Regional Representation

Regional representation is critical at the UN, reflecting the diversity of member states’ backgrounds and perspectives. Each candidate has a unique connection to their region, which could inform their approach to global issues. António Costa’s experience in the European Union will undoubtedly bring an EU perspective to the role.

Nana Akufo-Addo’s African background and leadership within the African Union will be invaluable in addressing regional challenges and promoting cooperation on the continent. Tommy Remengesau Jr.’s presidency of Palau will add a Pacific voice, highlighting the unique concerns of small-island developing states.

Franz Timmermann’s European experience will bring a focus on multilateralism and cooperation, while Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono’s leadership in ASEAN will emphasize regional partnerships and peacebuilding. Douglas Alexander’s background as Foreign Secretary highlights his ability to work with various global partners.

Candidates’ Visions for the Future of the UN

Each candidate has outlined their vision for the future of the UN, emphasizing potential reforms and priorities. António Costa has emphasized the need for a more inclusive and representative organization, highlighting the importance of strengthening the role of regional organizations in addressing global issues.

Nana Akufo-Addo has stressed his commitment to promoting peace and security through conflict prevention and resolution. Tommy Remengesau Jr. has underlined the importance of climate action and environmental protection as central components of UN priorities.

Franz Timmermann has highlighted the need for a more effective response to pandemics, migration, and inequality, emphasizing the role of multilateral cooperation in addressing these challenges. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has emphasized his commitment to building partnerships with regional organizations and promoting peace and stability through inclusive dialogue.

The Bidding Process

The next UN Secretary-General will be chosen through a complex process involving several stages, including the submission of nominations by member states, consultations among regional groups, and ultimately, a vote by the General Assembly. This process is expected to unfold over the coming months, with the new Secretary-General taking office on January 1, 2024.

Each candidate faces a daunting task in persuading member states to support their bid. As they navigate this complex landscape, it remains unclear which candidate will emerge victorious. However, one thing is certain: the next UN Secretary-General will face immense challenges, and their leadership will be critical in shaping the organization’s response to some of the world’s most pressing issues.