Bachelet’s Withdrawal: A Missed Opportunity for Multilateralism

The withdrawal of Michelle Bachelet from the UN secretary general race marks a significant setback for those who had been counting on her to champion multilateralism and international law in the face of growing global pressures. Despite her impressive credentials, including two terms as president of Chile and a stint as UN human rights chief, Bachelet’s campaign struggled to gain traction with security council members.

Bachelet’s platform was perhaps too focused on the past glories of multilateralism, which may have seemed insufficiently bold or innovative in an era where great powers are questioning the relevance and effectiveness of international institutions. This approach is akin to trying to hold back a tide with a worn-out broom – no matter how hard you sweep, the waters will eventually rise again.

Bachelet’s campaign was also hampered by her lack of direct experience in international diplomacy at the highest levels. While her work as UN human rights chief was valuable, it was focused on advocacy rather than coalition-building or deal-making. In contrast, Costa Rica’s Rebeca Grynspan has a strong background in international cooperation and diplomacy.

Bachelet’s withdrawal leaves the UN with an uncertain future at the top. The security council will formally recommend a single candidate to the 193-member general assembly for election, but consensus is far from guaranteed. This process has highlighted deep divisions within the UN system – between those who see the institution as a vehicle for great power politics and those who believe in its potential to transcend national interests.

The next secretary general will face an unprecedented set of challenges, including rising nationalism, climate change, and inequality. To succeed, they’ll need more than just diplomatic skills; they’ll require a deep understanding of the complex interplay between domestic politics, international relations, and economic forces.

The UN’s problems run deeper than its leadership, however. For too long, the institution has been seen as slow-moving and ineffective in responding to global crises. Bachelet’s campaign struggled to gain traction because of a disconnect between the UN’s ideals and the interests of great powers. Until this fundamental mismatch is addressed, significant improvements in the institution’s effectiveness are unlikely.

The next secretary general will need to possess a rare combination of vision, diplomatic skills, and willingness to take risks. In this sense, Bachelet’s withdrawal can be seen as a missed opportunity for the UN to take bold action in these uncertain times. The real question now is who will emerge from the shadows to fill the void left by Bachelet – Rebeca Grynspan or someone entirely new with fresh ideas and perspectives.

Ultimately, true leadership requires more than just credentials or experience; it demands a willingness to challenge the status quo, think outside the box, and put the needs of others before one’s own interests. As we await the next chapter in this ongoing saga, it’s worth asking ourselves whether we’ll see such qualities in the next UN secretary general – or whether we’re doomed to repeat the mistakes of the past.