UAE nominates Lana Nusseibeh to become next UN Secretary-General

UAE Minister of State Lana Nusseibeh has officially entered the competition to become the next United Nations secretary general, as reported by the state news agency WAM on Wednesday. Nusseibeh, who previously served as the nation's UN representative and led its delegation on the Security Council, highlighted her extensive experience with the UN and her ability to achieve diplomatic outcomes.

In a letter submitted to the UN Security Council from President Sheikh Mohamed, her qualifications were praised, including her "deep experience of the United Nations" and her "record of constructive work." Nusseibeh expressed her belief that the current moment requires greater urgency and collaboration across differences to rebuild trust in the UN.

She emphasized the need for clearer priorities, stronger accountability, and empowering field practitioners to deliver results. If elected, Nusseibeh would be the first woman to hold the position of secretary general and the first Arab and Gulf Arab to assume the role. The UN Security Council is currently deliberating among eight candidates, with Costa Rica's Rebeca Grynspan being the frontrunner.