Statement of the President of the United Nations General Assembly, H. E. Ms. Annalena Baerbock, on the dates for the interactive dialogues with candidates for the position of Secretary-General
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The selection of the next Secretary-General is officially underway, presenting a pivotal moment for the United Nations and the global community. Officially launched with the release of the Joint Letter from the President of the General Assembly and the President of the Security Council dated 25 November 2026 (), this process is not purely a formality; it is an opportunity to define leadership that will guide our organisation through an era of profound challenges and transformative change. I am pleased to announce that webcast interactive dialogues with candidates for the position of Secretary-General will take place in the week of 20 April 2026.
These interactive dialogues represent a cornerstone of our commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and accountability throughout the selection and appointment process. The Secretary-General is the face and voice of this institution. This process is our chance to send a clear message about who we are and what we stand for ¨C an organization that truly serves all of humanity, half of whom are women, and that is ready to confront pressing global challenges, from conflict and climate change, to inequality and digital revolution. Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ needs a leader who can chart a path forward while passionately upholding the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter.
During the webcast interactive dialogues, each candidate will be given the opportunity to present her or his vision statement, and Member States to interact with the candidates. In line with Resolutions on the Revitalization of the work of the General Assembly, I encourage the continuation of the engagement of civil society in the interactive dialogues.
I informed Member States today about the webcast interactive dialogues (LINK).
Together, let us seize this moment to reaffirm our shared principles and strengthen the foundation of multilateral cooperation.
New York, 14 January 2026