ISI engages UN Secretary-General candidate on international law: Stimson Center, Washington DC

On 9 September 2026, the Stimson Center and the Academic Council on the United Nations System (ACUNS) co-hosted a fireside chat with María Fernanda Espinosa, a candidate to become the tenth Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1 January 2027.

Espinosa served as President of the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly and previously held office as Ecuador’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Defence. Her extensive experience in diplomacy and multilateral affairs provided the backdrop to a discussion about the future direction of the United Nations.

The conversation focused on Espinosa’s vision for the organisation, the future of multilateral cooperation and the qualities of global leadership required at a time of growing geopolitical division and pressure on international institutions.

The Inclusive Society Institute (ISI) was represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Daryl Swanepoel. During the discussion, Swanepoel questioned Espinosa on how she envisaged the role of the United Nations in upholding international law.

Espinosa acknowledged that the United Nations had an important role to play in defending and reinforcing the international legal order. She emphasised that this was necessary to build trust and strengthen its legitimacy.

The exchange was particularly relevant as the United Nations confronts growing questions about its effectiveness, credibility and ability to respond consistently to violations of international law. The discussion provided an opportunity to consider not only the priorities of a prospective Secretary-General, but also the reforms needed to ensure that the multilateral system remains representative, trusted and capable of effective action.

Opening remarks were delivered by Dr Sandra Tombe, Executive Director of ACUNS. The discussion was moderated by Dr Richard Ponzio, Director and Senior Fellow in the Global Governance, Justice and Security Program at the Stimson Center.