Statement by H.E. Sanita Pavļuta-Deslandes, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Latvia to the UN at the Security Council Open Debate on “Leadership for Peace”
New York, 15 December 2025
Mr. President,
I thank the Slovenia for convening this timely debate. I also extend sincere appreciation to the briefers – Ms. Anjali Dayal and H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon for their valuable insights and guidance.
Let me also acknowledge the steadfast leadership of Secretary-General António Guterres during an exceptionally challenging period for the Organisation. His integrity, moral clarity, and tireless advocacy for multilateralism have strengthened the UN at a time when global cooperation has been under severe strain.
Next year, the Security Council will undertake one of its most consequential responsibilities: recommending the next Secretary-General. At a moment of widening geopolitical fractures, an unprecedented number of armed conflicts, and increasing disregard for international law and human rights, the world looks to the United Nations – and to its next leader – to restore trust in multilateral cooperation. Expectations could not be higher.
Allow me to highlight three points from Latvia’s perspective as an incoming Council member.
First, on the process.
Latvia welcomes the joint letter by the Presidents of the General Assembly and the Security Council, which formally initiated the selection process.
We attach great importance to a process that is transparent, inclusive, and accessible to the wider membership. Clear information on how the Council intends to conduct its work, predictable opportunities for all candidates to present their visions, and regular updates to the membership strengthen confidence and legitimacy.
Second, on a representation of women.
Latvia fully supports the encouragement conveyed in the joint letter to strongly consider nominating women candidates. It is a striking reality that in eighty years no woman has ever held the position of Secretary-General. This is a historic opportunity to correct that imbalance.
Women today lead in diplomacy, peacebuilding, humanitarian action, and international organisations. They have repeatedly demonstrated the capacity to steer complex institutions and navigate geopolitical divides. Ensuring that women are meaningfully considered for the position of Secretary-General is therefore not symbolic – it is a matter of strengthening the Organisation’s effectiveness and credibility.
Third, on the role and qualities of the next Secretary-General.
The future Secretary-General must be a principled and independent guardian of the Charter – capable of advancing all three of its pillars: peace and security, human rights, and sustainable development. She must bring strong political leadership, deep understanding of the UN system, proven diplomatic skill, and the managerial capacity to steer the Organisation through fiscal challenges and essential reforms. She must advance and complete major and necessary structural reforms to enhance UN efficiency, relevance and make it fit for purpose. Likewise, she must be prepared to use the full range of tools available – including, when necessary, the authority under Article 99 – to help avert, mitigate, and resolve conflict.
But we must also underscore a crucial point: no Secretary-General, no matter how capable, can succeed without the political will of Member States. The effectiveness of the next Secretary-General will depend on our collective readiness to uphold the Charter, respect international law, and support the Secretary-General’s to lead, act, and deliver.
Mr. President,
The next Secretary-General will assume office at a time when courageous leadership is urgently needed. Latvia will approach the selection process with a clear commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and the founding values of our Organisation. We need a Secretary-General who embodies the Charter, who inspires confidence across regions, and who leads with vision, integrity, and resilience.
I thank you.