By San José, Costa Rica — GENEVA – In a decisive move that positions Costa Rica at the center of international diplomacy, Rebeca Grynspan has officially entered the race to become the next United Nations Secretary-General. The current head of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Grynspan is advocating for a selection process rooted in merit and capability, explicitly rejecting any form of preferential treatment based on gender as calls grow for the global body to appoint its first female leader.
Endorsed by her home country’s government as “the most qualified” candidate, Grynspan is poised to campaign for the top UN post as the second term of current Secretary-General António Guterres concludes at the end of 2026. While the push for a woman to lead the organization is stronger than ever, Grynspan insists the focus must be on qualifications, not identity politics.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal and economic significance of Rebeca Grynspan’s role on the world stage, TicosLand.com consulted with expert analyst Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The leadership of a Costa Rican like Rebeca Grynspan at the helm of a critical UN body such as UNCTAD is not merely a diplomatic achievement; it is a powerful reaffirmation of our country’s brand on the global stage. It underscores Costa Rica’s deep-rooted commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, and a rules-based international order, which in turn enhances our legal and commercial credibility for foreign investment and international trade agreements.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight is a crucial reminder that the influence of Costa Rican leaders on the global stage is not merely a source of national pride, but a strategic asset that directly strengthens our nation’s economic and diplomatic credibility. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this connection.
If we can have a process that does not discriminate against women and we are able to access the position of Secretary-General, we will show the world that we can live on an equal footing, that there is truly hope.
Rebeca Grynspan, Head of UNCTAD
Grynspan, a 69-year-old economist and former Vice President of Costa Rica, has firmly positioned herself against what she terms “positive discrimination.” She is part of a formidable group of potential female candidates from Latin America, including former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, Mexican Environment Secretary Alicia Bárcena, and Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley. Grynspan asserts that their collective experience speaks for itself.
None of us need preferential treatment. We reject all discrimination… We do not want discrimination to dictate this election.
Rebeca Grynspan, Head of UNCTAD
Rather than simply demanding a female leader, Grynspan reframes the conversation, urging the international community to examine the systemic barriers that have prevented a woman from holding the position in the UN’s nearly 80-year history. Her approach seeks to dismantle obstacles rather than create special pathways.
The real issue is not to say that a woman is needed, but to ask why there has not been one until now.
Rebeca Grynspan, Head of UNCTAD
Her leadership at UNCTAD since 2021, where she became the first woman to hold the top post, serves as a testament to her capabilities. Grynspan, who will temporarily step down from her role to campaign in the coming months, points to her extensive career as preparation for the immense pressures of the Secretary-General role. She notes that overcoming professional hurdles has forged key attributes necessary for global leadership.
Having been able to overcome so many obstacles in my career and through my experience has made me very resilient and persistent.
Rebeca Grynspan, Head of UNCTAD
Grynspan’s tenure has been marked by navigating complex geopolitical crises, including climate change and the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. She played a pivotal role in the UN’s negotiation of the 2022 “Black Sea Grain Initiative,” which facilitated the export of critical food supplies from Ukrainian ports amidst the Russian invasion. This experience underpins her belief in economic cooperation as a diplomatic lever.
I truly believe that trade can be a tool for peace and for diplomacy.
Rebeca Grynspan, Head of UNCTAD
As UNCTAD prepares for its quadrennial conference in Geneva, Grynspan highlights the immense challenges facing the global order, including new tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. She describes a “tectonic shift” in global commerce, driven by industrial policies and security concerns, and warns that it is essential for the United States and China to pursue negotiation to avoid a devastating trade war. Throughout these challenges, her focus remains on shielding the most vulnerable nations from economic fallout.
For further information, visit unctad.org
About The 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. It provides analysis, facilitates consensus-building, and offers technical assistance to help developing countries use trade, investment, finance, and technology as vehicles for inclusive and sustainable development.
For further information, visit un.org
About The United Nations (UN):
The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945 after the Second World War by 51 countries committed to maintaining international peace and security, developing friendly relations among nations, and promoting social progress, better living standards, and human rights. Its mission encompasses a wide range of global issues, from sustainable development and climate action to disaster relief, counter-terrorism, and the promotion of democracy and gender equality. The Secretary-General serves as its chief administrative officer.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of the legal community, built upon a foundation of professional excellence and unwavering ethical standards. Drawing from a rich history of guiding a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers modern legal solutions while maintaining a profound commitment to social responsibility. This dedication is demonstrated through its mission to demystify the law, empowering citizens with accessible knowledge to foster a more just and capable society.
