CAMPAIGN: A More Democratic Selection Process
Introduction to the Campaign:
Transparent and Accountable Procedures for the Selection of the UN Secretary-General
Historically, the selection of the UNSG, which is carried out by the General Assembly “upon the recommendation of the Security Council,” has occurred largely behind closed doors and falls far short of existing international high-level public sector appointment procedures established to ensure qualified appointments. Based on consultations with NGOs and civil society worldwide, UNSGselection is therefore encouraging the United Nations to incorporate the following procedures to enhance the transparency, accountability and inclusiveness necessary for the selection of a qualified and effective candidate:
- Formal candidate qualifications,
- Official timetable and systematic reporting
- Procedures for assessment of candidates
- Gender and geographic diversity considerations
These procedures reflect crucial yet realistic reforms based on the current UN format, practices within existing international high-level appointment procedures and calls from Security Council members themselves to enhance the accountability of the UN’s management and leadership framework. See below to learn more, to endorse the campaign and to sign on to the NGO open letter to the Security Council.
