The United Nations needs the strong leadership that Guterres can bring
Facing criticism for being dysfunctional and ineffective, the body should benefit from the incoming chief’s reputation and track record
There is no more demanding job in the world than secretary general of the United Nations. Former Portuguese leader and head of the UN refugee agency Antonio Guterres took over the job from Ban Ki-moon on Sunday, and expectations are high he can mend an organisation that many believe is dysfunctional and ineffective. He has been left a daunting to-do list: aside from wars and threats, the deep divide persists between developing and developed countries on a host of issues and there is an urgent need to reform a heavily bureaucratic system that is based on an outdated world view. A strong hand at the helm is needed, although change will require time and the cooperation of member nations, especially those of the Security Council.
The events of 2016 have made this year one of uncertainty, a challenging start for Guterres. Bringing stability to conflict zones and striking a blow against terrorism requires UN members having a common approach, a matter that seems increasingly unlikely given global trends. There is a move away from multilateralism in the name of national self-interest. US president-elect Donald Trump has already vowed a changed American stance at the UN, and elections in Germany, France, Italy and the Netherlands could lead to governments that would consider joining Britain in leaving the EU.
