Photo: EPA
The process to select a successor has officially begun. Argentina has formally nominated Rafael Grossi, current Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), for the position of UN Secretary-General for the 2027–2031 term, as part of the open selection process to replace António Guterres.
Argentina’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Grossi could “promote diplomatic dialogue and act effectively in conflict situations and major international crises as an impartial interlocutor.”
“It is a great honor and privilege for me to present Rafael Grossi as a candidate for Secretary-General of the United Nations,” Foreign Minister Pablo Cerna wrote online, noting that Grossi “is internationally recognized for his successful six-year tenure as IAEA Director General, demonstrating leadership in complex situations affecting international peace and security.”
The election process has begun. UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock and UN Security Council Chair Michael Imran Kanu have called on member states to submit nominations and “seriously consider the possibility of nominating women.”
“Our choice will send a strong signal about who we are as the UN and whether we truly serve all the people of the world,” said Baerbock.
So far, three candidates are known for the post:
- Rafael Grossi – IAEA Director General
- Michelle Bachelet – former President of Chile
- Rebeca Grynspan – Secretary-General of the UN Conference on Trade and Development
In April 2025, Grossi confirmed his intention to run for UN Secretary-General. The position will become vacant in 2026, when the current Secretary-General António Guterres’ term ends. Guterres was first elected in 2017 and reappointed in 2021. The process to select his successor began on November 25, 2025.
