Members of a leading regional grouping of Caribbean countries have converged around a candidate regarding the much-publicised race for the next United Nations (UN) Secretary-General.

Yet this diplomatic moment is not so straightforward. It requires a closer look with an eye to an emergent geopolitical situation that carries warnings for such states, which are especially invested in who takes up the mantle of leadership at the UN.

At their latest summit, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders backed the candidature of Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett in respect of the soon-to-be-filled position of the 10th UN Secretary-General.