What will the next leader of the UN need to get the job done in an increasingly complex world?

On January 1, the United Nations will see a new secretary-general assume leadership of an institution that remains controlled by the same powers that emerged victorious from World War II. The UN, once a major force in resolving conflicts and crises worldwide, has been reduced to a secondary player in addressing ongoing wars in Iran, Ukraine, and Gaza.

Additionally, the UN faces significant financial challenges, primarily due to the United States' substantial debt, which has led to cuts in its humanitarian and development programs. The recent annual gathering of world leaders at the UN provided insight into the qualities the incoming secretary-general must possess and prioritize.

In his farewell address to the General Assembly, outgoing Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized that the world cannot afford a weakened UN. He stressed the need for a UN that is strong enough to confront the present global situation and determined enough to shape a future that aligns with the world's aspirations. However, the path to achieving these goals appears challenging.

While there is considerable discussion surrounding the UN's future, the reality is that the organization must navigate an increasingly complex world, where it must balance its historical responsibilities with the demands of the present.