For the past 70 years, the UN Secretary-General has been chosen in secret, in a process dominated by the permanent members of the Security Council. Now, for the first time in history, candidates competing to be next UN leader will take part in public debates as the current Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, prepares to step down at the end of 2016. These debates mark a major success for UNA-UK and our 1 for 7 Billion campaign, which is calling for a fair, open and inclusive appointment process.

The debates – to be held in New York and London – will see candidates going head-to-head, answering questions from members of the public and journalists.

Organised by UNA-UK in partnership with the Guardian and the Future United Nations Development System project, the first debate took place on 13 April in New York. All candidates have been invited to take part.

Those not able to make the first debate will be invited to the second event, which will be held on 3 June in Central London – where the first UN Secretary-General, Trygve Lie, was appointed 70 years ago. More information about the London debate will be available soon.

Questions Needed!

The debates will include pre-submitted questions from the global public through a worldwide poll coordinated by Avaaz and Global Citizen, as well as live questions on the night. Vote for the question you want to be asked, and ask your own question here.