As the United Nations (UN) approaches the end of Antonio Guterres's second term in December 2026, the race for the next Secretary-General is heating up with a prominent question: is the world ready for a female leader at the helm?

• For the first time in its 80-year history, there is significant international support and a strong field of five female candidates out of seven nominated.
• Key figures driving this momentum include the President of the UN General Assembly, Annalena Baerbock, and the advocacy group "1 for 8 Billion".
• Despite the growing number of women in high-level UN positions, the final decision rests with the Security Council, where the five permanent members hold veto power, highlighting the geopolitical complexities.