Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has pledged her country’s support for Guyana’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, in her bid to become the next UN Secretary-General.
Mottley committed while addressing the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 24, saying Barbados was joining other Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states in backing Rodrigues-Birkett’s candidacy.
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“Barbados joins its sister member states in the Caribbean Community in pledging its full support for the candidature of Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett of Guyana,” Mottley told the General Assembly. She said Rodrigues-Birkett brings the experience, skills and understanding needed to serve the entire UN membership at a time when the international community is being called upon to renew its faith in multilateralism.
Rodrigues-Birkett is Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and was nominated by Guyana for the Secretary-General position on June 15, 2026. CARICOM heads of government subsequently endorsed her as the region’s candidate at their 51st Regular Meeting in Saint Lucia in July.
Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali has also used his UN General Assembly address to urge member states to support Rodrigues-Birkett, highlighting her diplomatic experience, character and record of service. He called on the five permanent members of the Security Council and other UN member states to consider her qualifications and experience.
If selected, Rodrigues-Birkett would become the first Caribbean national to serve as UN Secretary-General. Her candidacy comes as the United Nations prepares to replace current Secretary-General António Guterres, whose term ends on December 31, 2026.
The selection process is being conducted under procedures designed to promote transparency and inclusivity. Candidates are nominated by UN member states or groups of states, participate in public interactive dialogues and are considered by the UN Security Council, which recommends a candidate to the General Assembly for appointment.
Rodrigues-Birkett is among the candidates nominated for the position as the selection process enters a critical stage. Her campaign has received formal backing from CARICOM governments, including Barbados, as Caribbean leaders seek regional representation in the UN’s top diplomatic post.
