Selection for next UN chief gets underway with first ‘straw poll’

The United Nations Security Council has initiated the process to select the world body's next leader, holding its first "straw poll" behind closed doors on Thursday. This initial vote aims to gauge support among the 15 council members for the candidates vying to become the UN's next secretary-general.

Antonio Guterres, the current UN chief, is scheduled to conclude his second five-year term on December 31, 2026. The chosen successor will begin their tenure on January 1, 2027, stepping into a role at a time when the UN faces numerous global challenges.

The Security Council holds the primary responsibility for recommending a candidate to the General Assembly, which then formally appoints the secretary-general. The "straw poll" is an informal ballot, allowing council members to express their preferences without committing to a final decision. The results will guide the subsequent stages of the selection process as candidates are vetted and their suitability for the demanding role is assessed.