The UN is choosing a new secretary-general at a time when it’s struggling to remain relevant. Sidelined in the wars in Ukraine, Sudan and the Middle East, and facing a severe funding crisis, the organisation is under growing pressure. This week, guest host Alec Russell speaks to Thant Myint-U, a former UN official, author and the grandson of former UN secretary-general U Thant, about the challenges its new leader will face. Clip: AP Archive

Free links to read more on this topic:

António Guterres on the future of the UN

Superpowers are discovering their limits, says UN chief

The new world order? Every man for himself

Wanted: a leader to rescue the UN

Nuclear watchdog chief pitches ‘leaner’ UN in secretary-general bid

Subscribe to The Rachman Review wherever you get your podcasts

Join us at the FT Weekend Festival on Saturday, September 5 at Kenwood House Gardens in London and spend the day with FT journalists and leading voices across business, politics, economics, culture and the arts. FT podcast listeners can save 10% off tickets with the code FTPODCAST. Click on this link to find out more.

Follow Alec on X @alecurussell

Presented by Alec Russell. Produced by Clare Williamson. Sound design is by Breen Turner.

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.