Uruguay Champions Latin American UN Secretary-General Bid, Avoids Specific Endorsement

Uruguay is actively promoting the candidacy of a Latin American individual for the position of United Nations Secretary-General, aiming for the region to hold the top post for only the second time in history. Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin affirmed the country's strong commitment to this goal.

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We are absolutely committed to having a Latin American as the next Secretary-General of the United Nations, which would be the second time in history.

However, Uruguay is taking a different approach compared to other regional powers like Brazil and Argentina. While those nations have already declared support for specific candidates, Uruguay, currently presiding over the Community of States of Latin America and the Caribbean (Celac), has chosen not to back any single nominee at this stage. Lubetkin stated, "We are absolutely committed to having a Latin American as the next Secretary-General of the United Nations." He added that the focus is on allowing each candidate to campaign for votes, viewing the diversity of options as a strength rather than a weakness.

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The day the elections are held, we will have our candidates. At this moment, the positions are that there are several candidates, that each one works to get votes. Diversity does not mean weakness.

President Yamandú Orsi met with two prominent candidates: María Fernanda Espinosa of Ecuador and Rebeca Grynspan of Costa Rica. Other potential nominees mentioned include former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, Rafael Grossi from Argentina, and Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett of Guyana. Lubetkin emphasized the necessity of "reforming" the UN, indicating that Uruguay will finalize its choice closer to the election date, the timing of which remains unconfirmed.

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Her experience as head of state for two terms, her deep knowledge of the United Nations system, and her recognized ability to build trust, build bridges, and build consensus make her an exceptionally prepared candidate to assume this responsibility.

This stance contrasts with the explicit endorsements made by neighboring countries. Brazil and Mexico have publicly supported Bachelet, citing her extensive experience as a head of state and her deep understanding of the UN system. Argentina, meanwhile, has backed Grossi, with Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno stating that the UN needs to regain its credibility and efficiency. Quirno praised Grossi's diplomatic career and his role as director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency.

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As indicated by President (Javier) Milei, the United Nations needs to recover its capacity for action, its credibility, its leadership, and its efficiency, returning the principles and purposes that gave rise to the organization to the center.