Michelle Bachelet withdraws from UN Secretary-General race

Former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, 74, announced on September 20, 2026, her withdrawal from the race to succeed Antonio Guterres as the Secretary-General of the United Nations. In a video message, Bachelet stated she has no regrets regarding her decision, noting that her campaign helped highlight the perspective that the next UN leader should ideally be a woman from Latin America.

Following her withdrawal, focus has shifted toward Rebeca Grynspan, the former Vice President of Costa Rica, who is currently considered the frontrunner. Grynspan secured the most support in the most recent informal straw poll conducted by the UN Security Council. To be appointed, a candidate must receive approval from at least nine of the fifteen Security Council members and must not face a veto from any of the five permanent members: the United States, Russia, China, the United Kingdom, or France. Once the Security Council reaches a consensus, the final appointment rests with the UN General Assembly.

The search for the next Secretary-General remains an ongoing process as the organization evaluates its future leadership requirements. While Bachelet’s exit significantly changes the composition of the field, the formal selection procedure continues according to the established diplomatic protocols.