The UAE has farmally nominated Minister of State Lana Nusseibeh for UN Secretary-General on October 21, 2026. She aims to succeed António Guterres in January 2027
ABU DHABI: The UAE has formally nominated Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Minister of State and former UAE Ambassador to the United Nations, as a candidate for the next UN Secretary-General.
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan submitted the nomination through a letter addressed to the presidents of the UN General Assembly and Security Council on October 21.
The UAE President highlighted Nusseibeh’s diplomatic experience, judgement in handling international challenges and contributions to multilateral cooperation.
Over a decade of UN experience
Nusseibeh served as the UAE’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 2013 to 2024.
During her tenure, she served as Vice-President of the General Assembly and President of the Executive Board of UN Women.
She also twice presided over the UN Security Council during the UAE’s 2022–2023 membership.
Her diplomatic work has covered international security, humanitarian assistance, sustainable development, women’s rights and institutional reform.
Nusseibeh outlines priorities
Announcing her candidacy, Nusseibeh called for stronger diplomacy, conflict prevention and greater accountability within the UN.
Her proposed programme prioritises peace and security, practical humanitarian agreements and reforms to improve the organisation’s effectiveness.
She also supports stronger international cooperation on emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
Nusseibeh has taken leave from her UAE government position to focus on her candidacy.
Who will become the next UN chief?
The selection process follows the approaching departure of António Guterres, whose second term ends on December 31, 2026.
The Security Council conducted its latest informal straw poll on October 16.
Under the UN Charter, the General Assembly appoints the Secretary-General following a recommendation from the Security Council.
Impact to expect
Nusseibeh’s nomination adds a Middle Eastern candidate to the leadership race.
If selected, she would become the first woman to lead the United Nations.
The successful candidate is expected to assume office in January 2027.
