Latin America and Caribbean: Women Leaders With a Plan to Revive Multilateralism

Latin America and the Caribbean have taken a bold step toward reshaping the United Nations by presenting a diverse slate of women candidates for the position of secretary-general. During a public dialogue in Montevideo, Uruguay, three of the four current female contenders, Rebeca Grynspan of Costa Rica, María Fernanda Espinosa of Ecuador, and Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett of Guyana, engaged in a discussion that highlighted new approaches to multilateralism. The event marked a rare opportunity for the UN to witness a regionally varied group of nominees debating how to revitalize global cooperation, a concept the organization has not seen in decades. The multilateral system is currently facing one of its most challenging periods since World War II. Escalating conflicts, worsening climate conditions, growing humanitarian demands, and declining institutional trust have placed immense pressure on the United Nations. Many nations view the UN as disconnected, sluggish, and ineffective in addressing modern challenges. In contrast, the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region has stepped forward with a list of highly capable women candidates, each bringing extensive experience in diplomacy, development, human rights, and crisis management. These candidates include Rebeca Grynspan, María Fernanda Espinosa, Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett, and Michelle Bachelet of Chile, though the latter was unable to attend due to illness. The dialogue, organized by the Colombian-based think tank Cepei in collaboration with regional partners, underscored the urgency of reform within the UN. The event, held publicly in Uruguay on August 3, featured direct engagement between the candidates and regional stakeholders. Grynspan, Espinosa, and Rodrigues Birkett presented actionable strategies aimed at restoring public confidence in the UN. Their proposals centered on making the institution more responsive, transparent, and proactive in preventing crises rather than merely reacting to them. The discussions reflected a clear understanding of the challenges ahead and a commitment to practical solutions grounded in real-world experience. For years, the LAC region has championed the principle of regional rotation in selecting the UN secretary-general, despite often being overlooked for the role. The region has consistently supported multilateralism, peaceful conflict resolution, and adherence to international law. During the dialogue, Espinosa emphasized that the time had come for the region to take its rightful place in the selection process. She noted that the LAC countries have maintained this tradition of rotating leadership and possess both the capability and the leadership qualities required for the role. Each candidate brings a wealth of expertise honed through years of service in government, international organizations, and diplomatic missions. Grynspan, a former head of the Organization of American States, has worked extensively on issues related to development and human rights. Espinosa, who previously served as president of Ecuador, has demonstrated leadership in economic policy and regional integration. Rodrigues Birkett, representing Guyana, has contributed significantly to environmental governance and sustainable development initiatives. Collectively, they represent a broad spectrum of professional backgrounds and regional perspectives. The dialogue in Montevideo revealed a shared vision among the candidates for a renewed UN, one that prioritizes trust, effectiveness, and inclusivity. They stressed that the legitimacy crisis affecting the UN stems not from the Charter itself, but from the organization's ability to deliver results. Member states and local communities expect a UN that is accessible, accountable, and willing to act decisively. The candidates called for a leader who would leverage the secretary-general’s authority to address global challenges proactively, fostering unity amid division and ensuring that the UN remains a relevant force in world affairs. As the search for the next UN secretary-general continues, the voices of these women leaders offer a compelling blueprint for the future of multilateralism. Their participation in the Montevideo dialogue marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to transform the UN into an institution better equipped to meet the complex demands of the 21st century.