Quest for UN Secretary-General begins

Vying to lead a crisis-wracked UN, the contenders are being grilled on their plans to address global conflicts and institutional reform.

The selection process comes at a time when the multilateral system is under intense pressure from wars in the Middle East and Ukraine.

Candidates are expected to present their visions for a more effective and accountable organization.

The hearings provide a rare public look at a process that has historically been conducted behind closed doors by the Security Council.