The global discussion about who will be the next Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) is gaining momentum. Current Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' term is set to conclude next year, and the election process for his successor is expected to commence by the end of this year. Initially, names such as Rafael Grossi, head of the nuclear watchdog, and former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet were prominent. However, a new and significant name has emerged in these discussions: Mohammed Yunus, the Chief Advisor of Bangladesh.
Nobel Laureate Yunus's Candidacy
Mohammed Yunus, 85, currently serves as Bangladesh's Chief Advisor and is slated to step down in February 2026. A Nobel laureate, Yunus is also considered a close ally of the United States. He was appointed as Bangladesh's Chief Advisor with US backing following the overthrow of Sheikh Hasina's government. During his tenure, Yunus has also worked to improve relations with countries like China and Pakistan. His continued activity despite his age, coupled with his deep understanding of finance. And UN operations, makes him a formidable candidate for the top UN post. A report by the Bangladeshi local newspaper Barnik Barta, citing the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry, confirmed Yunus as a strong contender for the UN Secretary-General position.
The UN Secretary-General Election Process
The election of the UN Secretary-General is a complex, three-stage process. First, candidates must file their nominations. Only individuals affiliated with a UN member state – of which there are currently 193 – are eligible to nominate. Typically, candidates are expected to have experience working in a ministry or embassy.
After nomination, the proposal is sent to the UN Security Council, comprising 5 permanent members (with veto power) and 10 non-permanent members, while if any permanent member exercises their veto against a candidate, their nomination is rejected. Once the Security Council approves the proposal, it's then put to a formal vote in the UN General Assembly, after which the final name is announced, while yunus's age and extensive experience make him a unique candidate, drawing considerable attention from the global community.
