– regional leaders call for Latin America and Caribbean to lead United Nations, citing equitable geographical representation

THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has reaffirmed its full support for Guyanese diplomat, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, to become the next Secretary-General of the United Nations, calling for a candidate from Latin America and the Caribbean to assume leadership of the global organisation.
In a statement following their 44th Intersessional Meeting on October 23, 2026, CARICOM Heads of Government said they remained confident in Rodrigues-Birkett’s ability to lead the United Nations amid pressing global challenges and the need for institutional reform and renewal.
The regional leaders reiterated their endorsement of her candidacy, which was outlined in the communiqué issued at the 51st Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government on July 10, 2026.
They highlighted Rodrigues-Birkett’s more than two decades of experience spanning field operations, legislative and political work, diplomacy and international civil service, describing her background as relevant to the demands of leading the United Nations.
CARICOM also pointed to her diplomatic skills and experience in building consensus and advancing institutional change, saying her leadership would be guided by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.
The Community reaffirmed its commitment to multilateralism, international law and the principles underpinning the United Nations system.
A central element of its position is the need for the UN Security Council and General Assembly to uphold equitable geographical representation and respect the practice of regional rotation when selecting the organisation’s next Secretary-General.
CARICOM said these principles were particularly important for smaller states seeking opportunities to contribute to the work of the United Nations, including at its highest levels of leadership.
“Accordingly, they shared the view that it is now time for a national of Latin America and the Caribbean to assume the mantle of leadership of the Organisation,” the statement said.
The regional leaders also recalled the declaration issued by the foreign ministers of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) in New York on September 21, 2026, concerning the selection process for the next UN Secretary-General.
CARICOM acknowledged the broad support extended so far to candidates from Latin America and the Caribbean and expressed appreciation for the backing received by its nominee.
The Community said the appointment of a CARICOM woman to the post would represent a historic milestone for the United Nations and the international community.
Rodrigues-Birkett’s candidacy comes amid calls for the organisation to address global challenges while strengthening its capacity to respond effectively to the needs of member states.
CARICOM said its continued endorsement reflects its position that the next phase of UN leadership should uphold the principles of multilateral co-operation, equitable representation and respect for international law.