200 World Leaders Push UN Pick for Gender Equality

The field of remaining candidates is dominated by Latin American and Caribbean states, with five of the six coming from the region. The UN's Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean reported at least 3,828 women were victims of gender-related killings across 26 countries in 2024. The ILO pegs women's labour force participation in the region at 52.1%, compared with 74.3% for men.

"As the world confronts escalating attacks on women's rights, shrinking civic space, and declining resources for gender equality, the next Secretary-General will have a unique opportunity, and responsibility [to demonstrate that gender equality is not a side issue," a Global 50/50 spokesperson said.]

The letter frames gender equality as integral to all 17 Sustainable Development Goals. UN Women has said women's empowerment shapes outcomes across poverty, health, education, climate, peace, and human rights, making the issue inseparable from the UN's broader mandate.

"This is not a zero-sum game where men lose what women gain," the letter said. "It shapes everyone's health, security and prosperity."

The open letter and full signatory list are available at global5050.org.