The German government has announced its intention to nominate Annalena Baerbock, the current Federal Foreign Minister, as the country’s candidate for the presidency of the UN General Assembly for the 2025/26 session. The decision was reported on March 18, 2025, emphasizing Germany's commitment to the United Nations at a time when the General Assembly's role has gained increased significance due to frequent blockades within the Security Council.
Baerbock, 44, is expected to be elected by the UN General Assembly during its voting session scheduled for early June 2025. If all goes as planned, she will officially take on the presidency starting September 2025 for a term of one year. This position is politically significant, as it reinforces Germany’s strong stance within the UN framework and marks its hopes to secure a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the years 2027/28.
The role of the president of the UN General Assembly includes overseeing the Assembly’s sessions and ensuring orderly processes during its meetings. Baerbock is set to present her working program in New York in May, building upon initial groundwork laid out by Helga Schmid, who was originally nominated for the position. According to sources within the German government, the decision to nominate Baerbock was made recently, and it reflects Germany's sustained engagement with global governance.
Germany’s last president of the General Assembly was diplomat Rüdiger von Wechmar, who filled the position back in 1980, and the Democratic Republic of Germany also had its president, Peter Florin, serve the Assembly back in 1987. Baerbock would become the first female German president of the UN General Assembly since reunification and the Cold War, reinforcing Germany's leadership and initiatives on the global stage.
The appointment does not come without controversy. Criticism has emerged, particularly from Russia, which has rejected her candidacy. Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, stated, "It would be strange to see the granddaughter of a Nazi proudly talking about her grandfather's 'heroic deeds' occupying the presidency of the General Assembly 80 years after victory [in World War II]." Such remarks reflect the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding her nomination and position.
Baerbock has served as the Federal Foreign Minister since December 2021 and has taken on significant responsibilities, including representing Germany at numerous UN meetings. Notably, after the recent Bundestag elections held in February 2025, she announced her decision to step back from any leadership role within the Green parliamentary group, stating her intent to step out of the spotlight for personal reasons.
Political engagements continue to evolve, with coalition discussions underway between the Union and SPD parties, and as Baerbock moves forward with her UN ambitions, her position will soon be filled by another leader. Reports suggest Friedrich Merz, the likely incoming chancellor, has been informed of Baerbock’s plans and has shown no objections to the nomination.
The UN General Assembly has increasingly grown influential amid the challenges faced by the Security Council, particularly due to instances of gridlock surrounding urgent global crises. Baerbock’s nomination is seen not only as a step forward for her political career but also as part of broader efforts to strengthen Germany’s role within international organizations.
Germany’s claim to appoint its citizens to key UN positions has been part of its strategy to showcase its commitment to international cooperation. Government sources assert, "The nomination emphasizes Germany's strong commitment to the United Nations." The upcoming months are likely to be pivotal for Baerbock as she prepares for her new role, which includes thoughtful preparations for the assembly sessions.
By stepping up to lead the UN General Assembly, Baerbock signals her readiness to engage on international platforms, potentially reshaping perceptions of Germany’s foreign policy. The move also serves to highlight the country's contribution to addressing significant global issues aligned with the United Nations’ objectives.
Looking forward, Baerbock faces the dual challenge of not only performing her duties as president but also marking her tenure with significant accomplishments amid growing scrutiny. Her upcoming tenure could become emblematic of Germany's diplomatic aspirations and its ability to wield influence within the United Nations at large.
With Germany securing the presidency of the General Assembly, political analysts will be watching closely to see how Baerbock's leadership contributes to the broader goals of the UN, especially as the organization seeks to address pressing challenges facing the world today.
