IN a world torn by conflict, the time has come for transformative leadership at the United Nations. After eight decades of male Secretaries-General, we stand at a critical juncture where women’s voices are not merely welcome but essential for global peace and security.
Russia’s brutal full-scale invasion of Ukraine continues unabated into its third year. The Elders remain unwavering in our solidarity with the courageous Ukrainian people and their democratically-elected leader, President Zelenskyy. Yet we cannot ignore the rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, particularly with the new administration in the United States. As this conflict enters a pivotal phase, Ukraine’s direct participation in any peace negotiations remains non-negotiable.
These developments provided the backdrop for our delegation’s participation at the Munich Security Conference last month. Alongside my fellow Elders Juan Manuel Santos, Mary Robinson, Helen Clark, and Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, our message resonated with unified clarity: world leaders must defend the multilateral system and uphold international law as the surest path to just and sustainable conflict resolution. This principle applies equally to our priority conflicts in Israel/Palestine, Russia/Ukraine, and Myanmar, as well as the devastating situations in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and beyond.
Departing from Munich, one truth became inescapable – our world desperately needs a new direction. As International Women’s Day approaches, we must forge innovative pathways to amplify women’s voices in peace and security spheres that have long been dominated by men, and at every level of global leadership.
The Elders have consistently championed gender equality and women in leadership positions. Today, we proudly support the 1 for 8 Billion campaign’s powerful call: after 80 years of exclusively male leadership, the time has arrived for a woman to serve as UN Secretary-General.
The United Nations glass ceiling remains intact, a stark reminder that true gender equality has yet to reach the highest echelons of global governance. For the UN to fulfil its mission in the 21st century, appointing a qualified woman as the next Secretary-General through a transparent, merit-based process is not merely symbolic but essential.
As member states prepare their nominations, we urge them to demonstrate genuine commitment by nominating exclusively female candidates. This represents our collective opportunity to catalyze transformative change and declare unequivocally that women’s perspectives are indispensable in addressing humanity’s most pressing challenges.
If we truly aspire to build a more stable and united world, ensuring women have an equal voice at decision-making tables is not optional – it is a necessity for our shared future.
With deepest gratitude for your continued support, Elbegdorj Tsakhia Former President and Prime Minister of Mongolia Member of The Elders
