Candidates Debate
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The Candidates Debate 2026 – #NextUNSG will take place on 9 June in Geneva, convened by GWL Voices in collaboration with the United Nations Foundation. Moderated by renowned journalist Zeinab Badawi, the debate will bring together official candidates for the position of United Nations Secretary-General. The event will provide a unique platform for candidates to present their vision, leadership approach, and priorities, and to engage in a substantive exchange on the most pressing global challenges facing the international community.
Designed as a high-level and neutral convening space, the debate aims to strengthen transparency and foster an informed global conversation on the future of multilateral leadership. Participation will be by invitation only, bringing together a curated audience of policymakers, ambassadors, NGOs, media, and students, while ensuring a focused and meaningful dialogue on the leadership, legitimacy, and effectiveness required of the next Secretary-General.