Michelle Bachelet, a former president of Chile, has dropped out of the contest to become the next UN secretary general, leaving seven candidates still in the race.
Key facts
- Michelle Bachelet, 74, has withdrawn her candidacy to become the next UN secretary general.
- Her decision followed a collapse in support during a security council straw poll.
- She announced the move in a video posted on Instagram on Saturday.
- Seven candidates remain in the contest.
- Bachelet is a former president of Chile.
Michelle Bachelet, a former president of Chile, has withdrawn her candidacy to become the next secretary general of the United Nations, according to the Guardian. Her bid had struggled to gain traction among members of the security council.
Bachelet, 74, announced her decision in a video posted on Instagram on Saturday. In it she said: “I will now continue, with the same determination as always, my international work.”
The Guardian reported that Bachelet dropped out after her support collapsed in a security council straw poll, a key stage in the process of selecting the organisation’s next leader.
Her exit leaves seven candidates remaining in the contest to lead the UN, according to the Guardian.
Straw polls are used by the security council to gauge the level of backing among its members for candidates before a formal recommendation is made. A weak showing can signal that a candidate is unlikely to secure the support needed to advance.
Why it matters
The UN secretary general is one of the most influential diplomatic figures in the world, shaping the organisation's response to global crises. Bachelet's withdrawal narrows the field and reshapes the contest to replace the current secretary general.
Frequently asked questions
Why did Michelle Bachelet withdraw from the UN race?
According to the Guardian, Bachelet withdrew after her support collapsed in a security council straw poll, a bid that had struggled to gain traction among council members.
How many candidates remain in the contest?
Seven candidates remain in the race to become the next UN secretary general following Bachelet's withdrawal.
How did Bachelet announce her decision?
She announced her decision in a video posted on Instagram on Saturday, saying she would continue her international work.