New research by the 1 for 7 Billion campaign shows that just three countries could block proposals supported by the vast majority of UN member states to improve the secretive and undemocratic process to select the UN Secretary-General.
Our new interactive map reveals that of the UN’s 193 member states, only China, Russia and USA oppose any form of change. As veto-wielding members of the Security Council, these countries could block reforms that are crucial to securing the best person for the job.
1 for 7 Billion is dedicated to making the Secretary-General selection process open, fair and inclusive. In the absence of UN-provided resources, the new Map of Support is designed to provide vital scrutiny on countries’ positions on opening up the process.
The map identifies four levels of support. States classified as 'highly committed' supporters have expressed independent support for five or more of 1 for 7 Billion's proposals for reform. Countries featured in this top tier category include Brazil, Costa Rica, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.
'Strong supporters' have backed at least three proposals and 'weak supporters' have approved just one or more proposals for change. China, Russia and USA are the only states which fall under the fourth category: 'opposes change'.