US envoy raises doubts over electing Chile's Bachelet as next UN leader

The United States, through its envoy to the UN, Mike Waltz, has signaled significant reservations about the candidacy of Michelle Bachelet for the position of UN Secretary-General. This stance, articulated during a US Senate committee hearing, directly addresses concerns raised by Senator Pete Ricketts regarding Bachelet's tenure as UN Human Rights Chief. Specifically, Ricketts criticized her for not labeling China's actions against Uyghur Muslims as genocide and for promoting abortion as a fundamental human right.

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I share your concerns.

Waltz's statement, "I share your concerns," indicates a unified position within the US government, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This opposition challenges the prevailing notion in New York that the next UN leader should be a woman or from Latin America, given the historical lack of representation. The US envoy emphasized that the priority is to find "the best" candidate who can provide "strong, effective leadership" and drive "reform" in peace and security.

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We have taken the position of we just need the best.

Bachelet's bid is further complicated by Chile's withdrawal of support following a leadership change and a political shift to the right. Despite these setbacks, she has indicated a determination to continue her campaign. The article highlights the critical need for support from the five permanent members of the UN Security Council – the US, Russia, China, Britain, and France – for any candidate to succeed. Bachelet's past actions, particularly her report on Xinjiang, have also drawn criticism from China, adding another layer of complexity to her international aspirations.

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And this institution desperately needs strong, effective leadership.