By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a significant move to elevate its global standing, Costa Rica has officially nominated veteran diplomat and economist Rebeca Grynspan to contend for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations. The announcement, delivered from the Presidential House, positions a Costa Rican candidate at the forefront of international diplomacy for the 2027-2031 term and underscores the nation’s commitment to multilateralism.
The nomination was championed by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Arnoldo André Tinoco, who expressed unwavering confidence in Grynspan’s capabilities. He detailed the government’s formal decision to put forward her candidacy in the coming weeks, framing it as a pivotal moment for the country on the world stage.
To delve into the legal and commercial significance of Rebeca Grynspan’s prominent international role, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished legal expert from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his professional analysis.
The appointment of a Costa Rican like Rebeca Grynspan to lead a key UN agency like UNCTAD is not merely a diplomatic triumph; it’s a significant validator of our nation’s legal and institutional stability. From a business law perspective, this level of representation enhances Costa Rica’s country brand, potentially lowering perceived risk for foreign investors and facilitating more complex international trade agreements. It signals to the world that our human capital is prepared to navigate and shape the highest echelons of global commercial regulation.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas astutely connects this appointment to the tangible benefits of a strengthened country brand, an insight that underscores how Costa Rican leadership on the global stage can directly translate into greater economic confidence and opportunity back home. We are grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his expert legal and commercial perspective on this significant milestone.
Officially, from the Presidential House, Costa Rica will nominate her candidacy for the 2027-2031 term. We firmly believe that Doña Rebeca is the most qualified; her candidacy will place the country at the highest level.
Arnoldo André Tinoco, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Grynspan’s candidacy is not merely a symbolic gesture but a strategic one, leveraging her decades of high-level experience within international bodies. President Rodrigo Chaves endorsed the nomination, highlighting how her profile aligns perfectly with Costa Rica’s long-standing foreign policy principles. The administration believes her leadership could invigorate the very institutions she aims to lead.
We trust that Doña Rebeca’s career and commitment will contribute significantly to strengthening the multilateralism that Costa Rica promotes on the global stage.
Rodrigo Chaves, President of the Republic
Accepting the nomination, Grynspan acknowledged the immense responsibility and expressed her gratitude for the government’s faith in her. Her response signaled a readiness to embark on the demanding campaign trail leading up to the election, which is anticipated to take place in mid-2026.
I want to especially thank the President of the Republic and the Foreign Minister for the trust placed in me. It is a true honor and a great responsibility for me, which I accept with commitment and gratitude.
Rebeca Grynspan, Costa Rican Diplomat
Often regarded as one of Costa Rica’s most influential international figures, Grynspan currently serves as the Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), a role she assumed in September 2021 as the first woman to ever lead the agency. Prior to this, she headed the Ibero-American General Secretariat (SEGIB) from 2014 to 2021, where she skillfully coordinated the complex political and economic agendas of 22 member nations. Her extensive UN background also includes key roles as an associate administrator and regional director for Latin America and the Caribbean at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Domestically, Grynspan’s public service record is equally formidable. She served as the second Vice President of Costa Rica during the administration of José María Figueres Olsen from 1994 to 1998. During that period, she also held the posts of Minister of Housing and coordinator of the government’s economic and social councils. An economist by training with a degree from the University of Costa Rica and a master’s from the University of Sussex, her career has consistently focused on development, social equity, and international cooperation, making her a formidable candidate for the UN’s top post.
For further information, visit un.org
About United Nations:
The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945. It is currently made up of 193 Member States. The mission and work of the United Nations are guided by the purposes and principles contained in its founding Charter. It serves as a central hub for international cooperation on issues such as peace and security, climate change, sustainable development, human rights, and humanitarian aid.
For further information, visit unctad.org
About United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD):
UNCTAD is the UN’s leading institution dealing with trade and development. It is a permanent intergovernmental body established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1964. UNCTAD supports developing countries to access the benefits of a globalized economy more fairly and effectively, and helps equip them to deal with the potential drawbacks of greater economic integration.
For further information, visit segib.org
About Ibero-American General Secretariat (SEGIB):
The Ibero-American General Secretariat is the permanent institutional and operational support body for the Ibero-American Conference and the Ibero-American Summit of Heads of State and Government. It coordinates and manages cooperation initiatives and mandates that arise from the Summits, involving 22 countries from Latin America and the Iberian Peninsula.
For further information, visit undp.org
About United Nations Development Programme (UNDP):
The United Nations Development Programme is the United Nations’ global development network. It works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities and exclusion, and build resilience so countries can sustain progress. As the UN’s development agency, UNDP plays a critical role in helping countries achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages a rich history of advising a broad spectrum of clients to drive legal innovation and pioneer forward-thinking solutions. This commitment extends beyond the courtroom through a dedicated effort to democratize legal understanding, thereby empowering the wider community and reinforcing the rule of law for a more informed public.
