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To incoming UN chief

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By Rinchen Dawa

Dear UN Secretary-General-designate, Antonio Guterre

First of all, let me join the rest of your well-wishers in congratulating you in your new job as the top U.N. diplomat. Congratulations that you secured the position unanimously and in an uncontroversial manner. It is only appropriate that the Secretary General of the United Nations be appointed in such a fashion. This is already a good start.

I am familiar with United Nations but sadly, only in theory. You have served as the head of the UNHCR refugee agency for a decade. Without a doubt, you are well accustomed to the United Nations. I am also well aware that you recognize and acknowledge the existential challenges the United Nations faces and will continue to face during your term, too.

Given the challenges the U.N. continues to face, I would like to humbly remind you of the few things I consider important.

You are not the puppet of super power(s). They will try to make you one. Strive not to become one. Some secretary generals before you have failed citizens of the world by becoming the pawn of super powers. As the U.N. charter mandates, we expect and plead you to function independently and most importantly, without fear. We miss Kofi Annan. I am confident you understand what I mean by this. Do what you think is right in your capacity as secretary general.

The time has come for United Nations to undergo structural changes; in particular, the United Nation Security Council ought to be reformed. The system which we have, as you know, has been there since its inception. With changing times, many states and intellectuals find the present composition of the UNSC unrealistic. The Big Five and the special veto rights they enjoy have in many occasions triggered indecision, deadlock and unimaginable loss of property and lives. See if you could do something to undergo structural changes with the UNSC.

The position of U.N. secretary general is befittingly said to be, “The most impossible job on earth.” As much as it is decorated, I am aware of the limitations which come together with your position. Therefore, all we ask and expect from you is, “Be our voice and provide the strong leadership the world deserves”

Wish you all the best!

The writer is a senior at the department of political Science and diplomacy at KyungHee University. Write to rinchendawa45@gmail.com