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

AI Summary

The United Nations Security Council has initiated the process of selecting the next UN Secretary-General with a first straw poll conducted behind closed doors. Current Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will complete his term at the end of 2026, opening the position for a new leader starting in January 2027.

The United Nations Security Council began the selection process for the next secretary general on Thursday, with a first “straw poll” held behind closed doors to evaluate support for candidates vying for the role at the embattled world body. Antonio Guterres, the current UN chief, is set to complete his second five-year term on the final day of 2026, leaving the high-profile role open for a new leader whose first day would be January 1, 2027. The 15-member Security Council is responsible for...