Backroom Deals
A major new research report from 1 for 8 Billion exploring the trade in promises for support between member states and candidates for UN Secretary-General.
Download the report here
This report shines a light on the world of dealmaking in selection processes drawing on more than 40 interviews with former diplomats, candidates from previous races and former senior officials.
The report contains credible allegations suggesting that all five permanent (P5) members of the Security Council have unduly compromised the independence of candidates over the course of the UN's history, including the incumbent, António Guterres.
The report was written by 1 for 8 Billion’s Ben Donaldson and Strategy for Humanity’s Fred Carver. It was edited by Plataforma CIPÓ’s Mariana Rondon and Nycolas Candido and published on June 24 2026.