Costa Rica has officially nominated Rebeca Grynspan as a candidate for the position of United Nations Secretary-General. This announcement was made on Wednesday by President Rodrigo Chaves.
Rebeca Grynspan: A Candidate with Extensive Experience
Rebeca Grynspan is a seasoned diplomat and economist. Presently, she serves as the Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development in Geneva. Grynspan has played a significant role in international relations, particularly in resolving issues related to the global grain shipments amid the conflict in Ukraine.
Key Contributions and Roles
- Former Vice President of Costa Rica (1994-1998) under President José María Figueres
- Current Secretary-General of UNCTAD
- Instrumental in facilitating the export of Ukrainian and Russian grains during the current war
During her tenure, outgoing Secretary-General António Guterres appointed her as the senior UN official to engage with Russian representatives, showcasing her prominence in diplomatic circles.
Official Registration and Support
President Chaves announced that Grynspan’s candidacy would be formally registered with the United Nations in the upcoming weeks. He expressed confidence that her extensive background in development and international cooperation would enhance multilateral initiatives.
Grynspan’s Campaign Strategy
At a press conference in San Jose, Grynspan outlined her campaign strategy. She emphasized her familiarity with the UN and her commitment to advancing reforms within the organization.
- “I know the United Nations well, I know it well enough to reform it and well enough to defend it,” said Grynspan.
- She acknowledged the stiff competition for the post, particularly from other candidates in Latin America.
Grynspan believes that embracing multilateralism today requires a commitment to reform. Her extensive experience positions her as a strong candidate for the United Nations’ top role, signaling a potential shift towards effective global cooperation and leadership.
