UNSC presidency: Greece takes the chair for October 2026
Why in the news
Greece assumed the presidency of the UN Security Council on 1 October 2026 for one month, its second stint in the chair during its current elected term.
Key facts
- Presiding officer: Ambassador Aglaia Balta, Permanent Representative of Greece to the UN.
- Term: Greece is one of the elected members for 2025-2026, with its membership ending on 31 December 2026.
- Previous presidency: May 2025.
- Agenda: Ukraine, Gaza ceasefire and humanitarian needs, Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, Sudan and Haiti.
- Secretary-General selection: if members agree during the month, the Council’s recommendation for the next UN chief may be made under the Greek presidency.
About the UNSC presidency
The Security Council has 15 members, and its presidency passes from one member to another every month. The president runs meetings and closed consultations, speaks for the Council and, under the authority of all members, manages its programme of work. The post does not give the holder power to take decisions alone.
Exam angle
- UNSC presidency rotates monthly; the Council has 15 members.
- October 2026 president: Greece (Aglaia Balta).
- The UNSC recommends the Secretary-General; the General Assembly appoints.