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UAE's Minister of State Lana Nusseibeh speaks at the at United Nations headquarters in New York City, New York, US, Oct. 27, 2026. (Credit: David 'Dee' Delgado/ Reuters)
Add as preferred on Google Emirati diplomat Lana Nusseibeh’s candidacy to become the next U.N. secretary-general has drawn sharp criticism in recent days, with human rights organizations questioning her independence. Announced on Oct. 21, nearly two months before the end of António Guterres’ second term, the candidacy of a familiar figure in the Emirati government has provoked an outcry. Nusseibeh, who until now served as deputy minister for political affairs and special envoy for the foreign minister, is seeking to succeed Guterres.The 48-year-old diplomat, a former UAE ambassador to the United Nations and the European Union, said she was taking a leave of absence from her ministerial duties to meet the independence requirements for the position.Without the traditional black abaya or headscarf worn by many Emirati women, Nusseibeh projects the image of the... You have reached your article limitStay informed about a Middle East in crisis.Subscribe for $0.5/month for the first 3 months. Subscribe now Log in This article is only available to L’Orient Today subscribers. Subscribe now Log in Create a free account to continue reading this article. You’ll also receive The Morning Brief, our must-read daily digest of Middle East news. Opt out anytime Email Address Password Email Address Password I would like to receive special offers from L'Orient Today as well as selections of the best articles. Register By creating an account, you agree to the terms and conditions of use and our privacy policy. Register Or register with: Facebook
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