Former Belgian Prime Minister to Assume One of UN’s Top Roles
Former Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo has been selected to become the next head of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), multiple diplomatic sources confirmed to Belga on Tuesday. The appointment marks a major international recognition for the liberal politician, who led Belgium from 2020 to 2024.
The decision was made by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who formally proposed De Croo for the position. His nomination must still be approved by the UNDP Executive Board and subsequently ratified by the UN General Assembly before it becomes official.
“For the appointment procedure, we refer, as is proper, to the UN Secretary-General,” De Croo’s spokesperson said, confirming the news but declining to comment further until the formal process concludes.
A Belgian Voice at the Top of the UN
If confirmed, De Croo will occupy one of the three highest-ranking positions in the United Nations, placing Belgium once again on the international stage. The UNDP chief oversees one of the organization’s largest agencies, managing programs focused on sustainable development, poverty reduction, democratic governance, and climate resilience across more than 170 countries.
De Croo, a member of Belgium’s Open VLD (Open Flemish Liberals and Democrats) party, previously served as deputy prime minister and finance minister before leading a fragile coalition government through the COVID-19 pandemic and the early stages of Europe’s energy crisis. Known for his pragmatic diplomacy and pro-European stance, he has been an outspoken advocate for international cooperation and economic modernization.
Political Leaders React
Reaction in Belgium was swift. Frédéric De Gucht, chairman of Open VLD, praised the appointment as a milestone for both De Croo and the country’s liberal movement.
“Immensely proud that a Belgian liberal is taking on the third-highest position at the UN,” De Gucht said in a statement. “It’s a wonderful recognition of your dedication, vision, and leadership. You were important to our country, and now you will be important to the world.”
What Comes Next
The UNDP Executive Board is expected to review and approve the nomination in the coming weeks, followed by a formal confirmation vote at the UN General Assembly in New York. If confirmed, De Croo would succeed current UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner, who has held the position since 2017.
De Croo’s appointment would not only make him one of the most influential Belgians on the global stage but also position him at the center of international efforts to advance the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, a mission he has frequently championed in his political career.
