UN leadership campaign: Guyana’s candidate outlines UN reform vision in engagement with Princeton Group

Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett on Monday engaged members of the Princeton Group on the United Nations (UN80) reform process, where she outlined her vision for implementing reforms if elected the next United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG). During the engagement, Rodrigues-Birkett said she would focus on ensuring that the UN becomes more agile, effective and efficient while remaining responsive to the needs of member states and fit for purpose in an evolving global landscape. She welcomed the opportunity to discuss her approach to implementing decisions arising from the UN80 reform process, noting that the organisation must adapt to meet emerging global challenges while continuing to serve its core mandate. Rodrigues-Birkett also thanked Ambassador Christian Wenaweser, Permanent Representative of Liechtenstein to the UN, and members of the Princeton Group for organising the engagement. She expressed appreciation to participants for their questions and perspectives, saying they contributed to a constructive dialogue on the future direction of the organisation. Rodrigues-Birkett is among five official nominees seeking to succeed António Guterres as the next UNSG when his second term ends on December 31, 2026.

Last week, she outlined a five-pronged agenda for her first 100 days in office should she be elected, centred on humanitarian action, support for vulnerable countries, institutional reform, conflict prevention and financing. She also pledged to appoint a senior leadership team that reflects competence, geographical balance and gender balance. The other candidates are María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés, nominated by Antigua and Barbuda; Rafael Mariano Grossi, nominated by Argentina; Rebeca Grynspan Mayufis, nominated by Costa Rica; and former Senegalese President Macky Sall, nominated by Burundi. The SG is appointed by the 193-member United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on the recommendation of the Security Council. While the Council, particularly its five permanent members with veto power, plays a decisive role in recommending a candidate, the final appointment is made by the General Assembly. If elected, Rodrigues-Birkett would become the first woman to serve as UNSG since the organisation was established in 1945, as well as the first Caribbean national to hold the post.
Rodrigues-Birkett has served as Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the UN since 2020. She previously served as Director of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Liaison Office in Geneva from 2017 to 2020, Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2008 to 2015, and Minister of Amerindian Affairs from 2001 to 2008.