Guterres succession: ‘Nation’ could do better on this important story

The race to replace António Guterres, whose second and final term as United Nations secretary-general ends in December, has attracted eight candidates, including Ugandan diplomat Olara Otunnu. Others are Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett of Guyana, Costa Rican Rebeca Grynspan, Rafael Grossi of Argentina, Macky Sall of Senegal, Maria Fernanda Espinosa of Ecuador, Michelle Bachelet of Chile and Ecuadorian Ivonne A-Baki.

This is an important global development, coming at a time when questions are being raised about the future of the UN and its relevance today.

Specifically, its failure to rein in some of its powerful members and to stop wars has been called out.

There are also those who argue that, even with these obstacles, the UN remains relevant and irreplaceable, especially because of its programmes and legitimacy. The impending change of guard should therefore reignite discussion of these issues.

As part of the selection process, which the UN says follows principles of transparency and inclusivity, the candidates participate in an interactive dialogue where they present their visions and answer questions from member states and civil society.