Former German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has officially assumed her role as President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The appointment marks another step for the 44-year-old Green Party politician on the global stage, following her resignation from the Bundestag.
Baerbock was elected on June 2, 2025, receiving 167 out of 193 votes in a secret ballot—a process reportedly influenced by Russia, which traditionally seeks to challenge outspoken critics. Throughout her tenure as Foreign Minister, Baerbock was known for her direct criticism of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
While the role of UNGA President is largely administrative and diplomatic, involving preparation and oversight of meetings, it becomes particularly important next year with the election of a new UN Secretary-General, where Baerbock will collaborate with ambassadors from all 193 member states.
Despite her international prominence, some German politicians have expressed reservations. Chancellor Friedrich Merz described previous debates over Baerbock’s foreign policy as belonging to the past, and former officials have questioned her diplomacy style compared to seasoned diplomats like Helga Schmid, who had previously been considered for the UN post.
Baerbock emphasized her vision for her term: “As President, I will serve all 193 member states—large and small—as a fair mediator and unifying force, with an open ear and an open door.” She highlighted the importance of upholding the UN Charter, European peace order, and fundamental international law, especially amid ongoing global challenges.
Her appointment comes as other prominent Green Party politicians, including former Vice-Chancellor and Economy Minister Robert Habeck, leave domestic politics, signaling a shift of Germany’s Green leadership toward international roles.
