Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Monday that Mexico has yet to decide which candidate it will support for the next United Nations secretary-general after Michelle Bachelet withdrew from the race. Bachelet, who was backed by both Mexico and Brazil, stepped down from her candidacy on September 19 due to insufficient support within the UN Security Council.
Sheinbaum highlighted that Mexico’s initial support for Bachelet was based on her extensive experience in international affairs, her advocacy for human rights, and her commitment to multilateralism. With Bachelet no longer in the running, Sheinbaum stated, “We have no one to support” at present. She indicated that the Mexican government would wait for the subsequent stage of the selection process to determine its position.
In addition to discussing the UN candidacy, Sheinbaum called for reforms to enhance the United Nations’ effectiveness in resolving international conflicts and promoting global peace and human rights. She advocated for the organization to take a more active role in addressing crises worldwide.
The next UN secretary-general will take over from António Guterres, whose term concludes on December 31, 2026. With Bachelet’s departure, seven candidates remain in the running for the position. The selection process continues as countries, including Mexico, evaluate their options for supporting a new candidate.