Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that Mexico currently has no candidate to support in the race for the next United Nations secretary-general following the withdrawal of Michelle Bachelet. Bachelet, backed by Mexico and Brazil for her extensive experience in international affairs and commitment to human rights and multilateralism, exited the race on September 19 after failing to gain necessary support in the UN Security Council.
Sheinbaum stated that Mexico would wait for the next phase of the selection process before deciding on a candidate to back. “We have no one to support at the moment,” she said, emphasizing the need for patience as the process unfolds.
The Mexican president also called for reforms within the United Nations to enhance its effectiveness in resolving international conflicts and advocating for peace and human rights. She highlighted the need for the organization to assume a more robust role in addressing global crises.
The selection process for the new UN secretary-general, who will replace António Guterres at the end of his second term on December 31, 2026, continues with seven candidates remaining following Bachelet’s withdrawal.