San Jose, 15 September 2021 (TDI): Rebeca Grynspan, a Costa Rican economist, becomes the first woman and Central American to serve as the secretary-general (4-year term) of UNCTAD. She was approved on September 13 by the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in June 2021.
As she received the honor, Grynspan expressed her appreciation and shared thoughts about COVID-19 along with the inequality and vulnerabilities of the present development model. Grynspan calls for the international community as we recover from the drastic impact of the pandemic. This is an opportunity to rebalance the global economy with resiliency and prosperity. Emphasizing to take action today to overcome barriers and embark towards greater prosperity that everyone can benefit from.
Grynspan also pointed out to make crucial decisions to respond to developing countries’ massive unmet trade, finance, investment, and technology needs. Following UNCTAD’s 15th quadrennial conference to be held from October 3-7.
Grynspan served as vice president of Costa Rica (1994-1998). She was also the minister of economic and social affairs and deputy finance minister.
