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The United Nations General Assembly will elect the president of its 81st session on June 2, 2026, during a vote at UN headquarters in New York. Cyprus is seeking the position through the candidacy of Ambassador Andreas Kakouris, who is facing Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman.
According to the UN's regional rotation arrangement, the presidency for the upcoming session has been assigned to the Asia-Pacific Group, which includes the Republic of Cyprus within the organization's regional framework.
Cyprus has presented its campaign as one centered on effective international cooperation, strengthening confidence in the United Nations, and reinforcing the General Assembly's role during a period marked by significant global challenges and pressure on international institutions.
Speaking to UN member states during an informal dialogue organized by current General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock, Kakouris argued that the next session will carry particular significance. In addition to addressing major international issues, it will coincide with the selection process for the next UN Secretary-General and the implementation of the Pact for the Future.
Kakouris emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining the effectiveness of the United Nations. He called for efforts to rebuild trust, improve the organization's performance, and ensure it continues to meet the needs of all member states.
The election takes place as the General Assembly grapples with questions surrounding institutional reform, financial challenges, implementation of agreed changes, and increasing geopolitical tensions. Baerbock has described the upcoming session as especially important because several major international priorities and reform initiatives will be taking place at the same time.
