During the United Nations General Assembly, world leaders called on the United Nations to appoint a woman as the next Secretary-General–the first in the 80-year history of the organisation. As Antonio Guterres completes his term in 2026, the discussions of change gain momentum. Nations such as Estonia, Slovenia, Mongolia, Chile, and the Dominican Republic demanded increased gender equity in the international leadership.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric specifically gave the nod to former President Michelle Bachelet, as
an expert in human rights and a leader with credentials. According to supporters, it would be more legitimate to appoint a woman at this time since it would be in line with the global priorities of inclusivity, climate justice, and peacebuilding. The controversy represents a pivotal moment in the history of international relations.
