Fri Dec 26 17:50:00 UTC 2025: News Article: Race for UN Secretary-General Heats Up, But Finnish Hopes Dim
HELSINKI – The United Nations Security Council has officially begun the search for the next Secretary-General, sparking speculation about potential candidates. While the role has historically been held by a select few, including two Nordic leaders, the chances of a Finnish candidate succeeding current Secretary-General António Guterres appear slim, according to experts.
Names like former President Sauli Niinistö and former Prime Minister Sanna Marin have been floated as potential contenders. However, Helena Laukko, Executive Director of the UN Association of Finland, suggests that geographical rotation norms within the UN make a European candidate unlikely this time around, with Latin America being the predicted frontrunner.
Miia Rainne, Head of the UN and General Global Affairs Unit at the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs, confirmed that Finland is not actively preparing a nomination due to the slim odds of success for a Western candidate.
The selection process is complex, involving nominations from member states, a recommendation from the Security Council, and a final vote by the General Assembly. The Security Council’s permanent members (US, UK, France, Russia, and China) hold veto power, which has historically influenced the outcome. This veto power famously blocked Finland’s Max Jakobson from the position in 1971.
While gender balance is also a consideration, with no woman ever having held the top UN job, the first officially announced candidate this year is Rafael Grossi of Argentina, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Grossi’s involvement in international negotiations, particularly regarding the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine, may give him an advantage, although criticism from countries like Iran is possible.
Other potential candidates mentioned include Michelle Bachelet (Chile), Rebeca Grynspan (Costa Rica), Jacinda Ardern (New Zealand), Alicia Bárcena (Mexico), and David Choquehuanca (Bolivia).
The UN Secretary-General faces significant challenges amidst global conflicts and questions surrounding the organization’s credibility. The composition of the Security Council itself is under scrutiny, with calls for greater representation from the Global South.
The UN Association of Finland advocates for greater transparency in the selection process, hoping the Security Council will present multiple candidates for the General Assembly to consider. The new Secretary-General will begin a five-year term, with a maximum of two terms permitted.
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