Rights groups oppose UAE diplomat's bid for UN secretary-general role

Rights advocates have expressed concerns about the appointment of Lana Nusseibeh, the United Arab Emirates' permanent representative to the United Nations, as the next secretary-general of the international body.

Nusseibeh, who is 48, has emerged as a candidate to lead the UN, a role that would make her the first woman and the second Arab to hold the position since the organization's founding.

However, human rights groups have voiced opposition to her candidacy, citing concerns that may relate to the UAE's own human rights record and governance practices. The groups have not detailed their specific objections in relation to her individual qualifications for the role.

The secretary-general position represents one of the most influential posts in international diplomacy and governance. The selection process typically involves consultation among UN member states, with permanent Security Council members holding significant influence over the final appointment.

Nusseibeh's candidacy comes as the UN seeks to select a new leader in the coming period, with various nations and organizations putting forward their preferred candidates for consideration.