Monaco Urged UN to Appoint Female Secretary-General
Monaco has called for a woman to lead the United Nations as the organization seeks a successor to António Guterres.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Women’s Issues
Live Poll
Should international organizations prioritize appointing women to top leadership positions?
During the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Monaco advocated for the appointment of a woman as the next Secretary-General. Four of the seven current candidates seeking to replace the outgoing António Guterres are women.
Why it matters
The UN has never had a woman serve as Secretary-General, making this a pivotal moment for institutional gender representation. Selecting a leader who reflects global diversity remains a core priority for member states as the current term concludes at the end of 2026.
There are currently seven candidates in the running to lead the United Nations, four of whom are women. No woman has held the post of Secretary-General since the organization's inception.
The players
Christophe Mirmand
He is the Minister of State for Monaco who represented the country at the 81st United Nations General Assembly.
António Guterres
He is the outgoing Secretary-General of the United Nations who will conclude his final term at the end of 2026.
The details
Minister of State Christophe Mirmand delivered the address on behalf of Monaco on September 25, 2026, during the general debate. The delegation also supported a new political declaration regarding the threats of rising sea levels, which was adopted unanimously by member states.
Timeline
September 21-28, 2026: UN General Assembly high-level week occurred in New York.
September 24, 2026: Member states adopted a political declaration on sea-level rise.
September 25, 2026: Christophe Mirmand delivered Monaco's address to the general debate.
End of 2026: António Guterres completes his final term as Secretary-General.
2027: Monaco will host the Games of the Small States of Europe.
Culture Shift
This push for female leadership marks a departure from the historical precedent of zero women having served as UN Secretary-General since 1945. It reflects a broader shift in international diplomacy toward advocating for greater gender parity at the highest levels of global governance.
The push for a new Secretary-General impacts international policy standards and the future of global law enforcement. Residents across the world may see shifts in how the UN addresses climate-related migration and coastal protection following the new declaration on sea-level rise.
The takeaway
Advocating for a woman to lead the UN highlights the ongoing efforts to reform the organization from within. Increased representation at the highest diplomatic levels can influence how member states prioritize social and environmental issues moving forward.
Further reading
Learn more about global gender advocacy initiatives in our Women’s Issues section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Monaco Life.
Live Poll
Should international organizations prioritize appointing women to top leadership positions?
