The leader the world needs: Appointing the next UN Secretary-General

The United Nations is at a crossroads. With multilateralism under pressure, funding in crisis and geopolitical competition intensifying, the appointment of the next UN Secretary-General may be one of the most consequential decisions member states make this decade. What kind of leader does this moment demand?

On Thursday 28 May, the United Nations Association – UK will bring together candidates for the position in a high-profile public event at Central Hall Westminster, London. We have invited all the nominated candidates and are delighted that Rafael Grossi and Rebeca Grynspan have confirmed they will take part, with further nominations expected in the coming weeks. This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from those vying to lead the world's most important multilateral organisation – and to have your say.

The programme:

• First, we'll hear from thought leaders with experience of the UN's work around the world, setting out their vision for the transformative and inspiring leadership that the UN needs, featuring Mark Malloch-Brown, former UN Deputy Secretary-General, Thant Myint-U, Writer and Historian, and Margarita Goméz, Executive Director of Southern Voice.
• Then, we will hear directly from the candidates, who will present their views and respond to questions curated by UNA-UK – submit your questions here!

The event will be moderated by a leading international affairs journalist and filmed for a global audience.

This event is hosted as part of UNA-UK's involvement in the 1 for 8 Billion campaign – a global coalition working to ensure the SG selection process is transparent, merit-based and accountable. In 2016, UNA-UK hosted a landmark equivalent event at the Barbican, one of three candidate events coordinated by 1 for 7 Billion which were watched by over 35,000 people across 161 countries.

The next Secretary-General takes office in January 2027. This is a rare public window into a process that will shape the future of the UN – and the world. Don't miss it.

Info: This high-level panel discussion on the leadership the UN needs will feature Mark Malloch-Brown, former UN Deputy Secretary-General, Thant Myint-U, Writer and Historian, and Margarita Goméz, Executive Director of Southern Voice.

Info: We will hear directly from the candidates standing to be UN Secretary-General, who will present their views and respond to questions curated by UNA-UK.

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Host or Publisher United Nations Association - UK