Leading Philippine Senator Loren Legarda has given her backing to UAE diplomat and Minister of State for International Cooperation Lana Nusseibeh as one of the top candidates for the role of United Nations Secretary General.
The comments come amid increasing international support for Nusseibeh to be considered as a candidate from member nations.
“She is an extremely experienced diplomat and one who has shown that she is highly qualified to lead the world body,” Legarda said.
Proven Track Record at the United Nations
As Permanent Representative of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations in New York, Lana Nusseibeh gained great recognition for her work during the UAE’s two-year term on the UN Security Council.
Lana led efforts to reach critical agreements on issues including regional security, climate security, humanitarian aid, and women’s inclusion in peacekeeping.
As President of the UN Security Council in March 2022 and again in June 2023, she gained her reputation as an expert negotiator who can bring together some of the world’s most powerful countries.
Championing Climate Resilience and Multilateral Action on the World Stage
Lana Nusseibeh, as Minister of State, has given high priority to incorporating climate risk within an international security context.
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Throughout COP28 in Dubai she contributed to historic agreements on funding for loss and damage for vulnerable countries.
Supporters highlight that she has given a great focus to sustainability, aligning with the UN’s pressing need to combat climate change.
Advocacy for Historic Female Leadership at the UN
She said it is historic that for the very first time a woman will become Secretary-General of the United Nations.
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Since its establishment in 1945, only nine men have served as United Nations (UN) Secretary-General.
“Having a highly accomplished woman leader from the Global South will be a strong statement of our commitment to equality, progress, and inclusive international governance,” Legarda said.
Bridging Global South Perspectives and Multilateral Diplomacy
This aligns with the UAE’s role as a global consensus builder, economic negotiator, and major humanitarian aid provider.
The candidates from the Middle East and developing countries bring fresh perspectives on how to improve multilateralism, climate change, and sustainable development goals.
Her extensive experience in bilateral and multilateral negotiations makes her an ideal candidate who will be able to build consensus with many members of the General Assembly and Security Council.
Emerging Market Coalitions Back Diplomatic Reform and Inclusive Leadership
The backing of senior Asian legislators reflects an overall trend towards representative leadership in Global South countries.
Her inclusive approach in the Security Council has led to strong partnerships being formed across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Global observers point to her candidature as breaking historic geopolitical barriers and providing a united vision for the General Assembly.
Timeline for the UN Leadership Selection Process
The future UN Secretary-General will be nominated by Member States of the United Nations, followed by public debates, straw votes by the Security Council, and a final vote by the UN General Assembly.
Discussions about who will replace current Secretary-General António Guterres are heating up as he nears the end of his second term.
UAE’s growing influence in foreign policy is reflected in Senator Legarda’s public support.
Also Read: From 286 Days on the ISS to Abu Dhabi: Why Sunita Williams Is Backing the UAE
