The United Nations is set to elect its 10th secretary-general in 2027, with seven candidates vying for the role.Rafael Grossi, a former head of the IAEA, is seen as a frontrunner due to his diplomatic expertise and work on Iran’s nuclear programme.Rebeca Grynspan, if elected, would be the first woman to hold the position, emphasizing institutional reforms and gender parity.Michelle Bachelet, a Chilean ex-president and former UN human rights chief, faces political challenges after her country withdrew support.Macky Sall, Senegal’s former president, advocates for a reformed Security Council with more representation from developing nations.Maria Fernanda Espinosa, an Ecuadorian diplomat, focuses on climate action and Indigenous policies.Carolyn Allison Rodrigues Birkett aims to make the UN more effective through conflict prevention and climate initiatives.Olara Otunnu, the oldest candidate at 75, prioritizes ending international conflicts and AI governance.All candidates emphasize institutional reforms, but face scrutiny over past decisions and geopolitical tensions.