Who is the head of the United Nations?

As an expert in international organizations and diplomatic affairs, I have a deep understanding of the structure and function of the United Nations (UN). The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945 after World War II with the aim to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, and promote social progress, better living standards, and human rights. At the heart of the UN is its Secretary-General, who is often considered the top civil servant of the organization and is responsible for upholding the UN Charter and carrying out various duties as outlined in the UN's founding documents.

The Secretary-General is appointed by the General Assembly upon the recommendation of the Security Council. The position is meant to be a symbol of the unity of the various member states and is expected to act impartially and objectively. The Secretary-General serves a five-year term and can be re-elected for another term.

António Guterres, the former Prime Minister of Portugal, was appointed as the Secretary-General of the United Nations on October 13, 2016. He succeeded Ban Ki-moon, who completed his term on December 31, 2016. Guterres has been recognized for his commitment to multilateralism and his efforts to reform the UN to make it more effective in addressing global challenges.

Guterres has a long history of public service and international relations. Before becoming the UN Secretary-General, he served as the UN High Commissioner for Refugees from 2005 to 2015. In this role, he was responsible for the protection and assistance of millions of refugees worldwide. His tenure was marked by numerous crises, including the Syrian refugee crisis, and he was praised for his leadership and dedication to humanitarian causes.

As the head of the UN, Guterres has focused on a range of issues, including climate change, sustainable development, human rights, and gender equality. He has also been a strong advocate for peace and has worked tirelessly to resolve conflicts around the world. His leadership has been tested by various crises, from the ongoing war in Syria to the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The role of the Secretary-General is complex and multifaceted. It involves not only representing the UN to the world but also coordinating the work of the various UN agencies and departments. The Secretary-General must also navigate the political landscape of the UN, which includes dealing with the interests and concerns of the 193 member states.

In conclusion, the Secretary-General of the United Nations plays a crucial role in the functioning of the organization and in shaping its response to global challenges.
António Guterres, as the current Secretary-General, has brought a wealth of experience and a commitment to the principles of the UN to his role. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding the UN through some of the most challenging times in its history.

Antonio Guterres became the ninth United Nations Secretary-General on Sunday. The term of former U.N. leader Ban Ki-Moon ended at midnight, December 31. Guterres is a former prime minister of Portugal. At the U.N., he served as the High Commissioner for Refugees.Jan 2, 2017