In a controversial move, the German government has nominated Annalena Baerbock, the serving Minister of Foreign Affairs from the Greens party, as the German candidate for the presidency of the UN General Assembly in the upcoming 2025/26 session. Initially, veteran diplomat Helga Schmid was expected to take on the prestigious role, leading to criticism from various political figures who argue that Baerbock's candidacy undermines the merit-based selection typically expected in international diplomacy.
Reports indicate that the cabinet decision to nominate Baerbock has been passed within the government, as noted on March 18, 2025. The election is scheduled for early June 2025, where Baerbock is anticipated to begin her one-year term in September. Nonetheless, the situation has quickly gathered criticism from notable figures, especially Christoph Heusgen, former chair of the Munich Security Conference, who openly condemned the government’s decision in an interview with the Tagesspiegel.
Heusgen expressed disbelief over the nomination, referring to it as "eine Unverschämtheit," or an "outrage," suggesting that the German government was replacing "the best and most internationally experienced German diplomat" with what he termed an "Auslaufmodell," or an outdated model. He further mocked Baerbock’s position by calling it an "Aktion Abendrot," a German term suggesting an act taken at the end of an administration’s term, indicative of a potential end-of-the-road governmental decision.
The choice of Baerbock has surprised many, especially given Schmid's extensive international credentials, including her previous roles as the Secretary-General of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and in negotiations surrounding significant agreements like the nuclear deal with Iran. Heusgen underscored Schmid's accomplishments, stating, "Helga Schmid was the head of the office for Joschka Fischer, Secretary-General of the European External Action Service, and saved the OSCE from collapse.” Baerbock's political background has drawn skepticism regarding her qualifications for a role many see as more than just symbolic.
Former German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel also echoed Heusgen's sentiments, stating that Schmid is "a great diplomat," and that Baerbock has much to learn from her predecessor. Gabriel's critique highlights a faction within German politics that views the nomination as a politically motivated decision rather than one based on diplomatic merit.
Internationally, opposition to Baerbock’s nomination has emerged, particularly from Russia. Maria Sacharowa, a spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, expressed disdain by referring to Baerbock’s family history, alleging it was inappropriate to have “the granddaughter of a Nazi” in such a prominent UN role. This assertion attempts to link Baerbock’s lineage with her political decisions and character, a strategy that has been employed in various geopolitical disputes.
Despite the backlash, the internal dynamics of the UN suggest that Baerbock's election may still be a formality. Germany holds the right to appoint the presidency for the 2025/26 session due to agreements within the Western European state group. If Baerbock is confirmed, she will be the first German to serve as President of the UN General Assembly since Rüdiger von Wechmann's term in 1980.
As Baerbock prepares for the possibility of assuming the presidency, speculation continues regarding her political future. Sources indicate that upon her election, she is expected to resign her Bundestag mandate, marking a significant transition from domestic politics to international diplomacy. Observers now await the outcome of the election process, set against a backdrop of criticism and political maneuvering, questioning the implications of her leadership for both Germany and international relations.
This nomination process highlights the complexities of political appointments in diplomacy, where personal history, experience, and political maneuvering can significantly impact the international stage. As Baerbock steps into the limelight, the discussions surrounding her nomination may only increase, serving as a reflection of broader debates over inclusivity and representation within global governance platforms.
