Bangladesh has called for a more transparent and merit-based process to select the next UN secretary-general, arguing that effective leadership is critical to addressing geopolitical rivalry, armed conflicts, climate change and declining trust in the multilateral system.
PM's Foreign Affairs Adviser Humaiun Kobir made the remarks today at a webinar titled "Rethinking UN Leadership in a Fragmented World: A Bangladesh-Centred Perspective", organised by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), Southern Voice and the 1 for 8 Billion campaign.
The discussion comes as the UN prepares to appoint a successor to Secretary-General António Guterres, whose second five-year term ends on December 31 this year.
Although the UN General Assembly formally appoints the secretary-general, the Security Council traditionally recommends a single candidate, with its five permanent members wielding decisive influence through the veto.
Humaiun Kobir proposed that the Security Council shortlist two to four candidates instead of recommending only one, allowing the General Assembly to elect the most qualified person through an open vote.
"Merit must be weighted heavily regardless of geography, gender or ethnicity," he said.
Presenting a study, CPD Programme Associate (Research) Afrin Mahbub said, "Gender inclusivity in leadership is vital, but it does not automatically translate into better governance, accountability or institutional effectiveness."
Ben Donaldson, co-director of the 1 for 8 Billion campaign, said the selection process remains dominated by the five permanent members of the Security Council, leaving little room for transparency.
Former Dhaka University professor Amena Mohsin said meaningful reform requires changes to the UN's structure, not just its leadership.
CPD Executive Director Fahmida Khatun moderated the discussion. Development experts, including Manusher Jonno Foundation Executive Director Shaheen Anam, Nijera Kori Coordinator Khushi Kabir and Bangladesh Mahila Parishad President Fauzia Moslem, among others, were present.
