Baerbock in the UN vortex: President or whistler in the political storm?

Baerbock in the UN vortex: President or whistler in the political storm?

Annalena Baerbock, the Green Party's foreign minister, will be elected President of the UN General Assembly in June. Her term officially begins in September 2025 and is considered a formality. Loud oe24 Baerbock expressed optimism about her move to New York, where she will live and go to school with her two daughters.

However, Baerbock's nomination does not go without criticism. Leading voices, including Christoph Heusgen, the former chairman of the Munich Security Conference, have called the decision an “outrage.” In particular, it is questioned why the experienced diplomat Helga Schmid, who was originally planned, was not given a chance. Schmid has been publicly praised by Baerbock in the past for her work at the OSCE daily news reported.

Criticism and reflection on women in positions of power

The debate surrounding Baerbock's election also raises fundamental questions about the perception of women in positions of power. Many voices emphasize that Baerbock's nomination, despite the massive rejection from Russia, could be groundbreaking. Their support from democratic allies like Canada shows that there is also a positive response. In the context of growing discussions about inclusive leadership, it is clear that women in leadership roles are essential to strengthen diversity and perspectives in politics. Another report from UN Women highlights that inclusive leadership is critical to positive change for women and girls.

Baerbock is confronted with fake news and hate speech in public, which also affects her family. Still, she remains optimistic and defends her nomination, pointing to previous secretaries of state who also held similar positions. Particular attention was also paid to her decision not to run for parliamentary group leader in order to take a step away from the spotlight.

The discussion about the role of the UN President is complex. While considered a largely ceremonial position, in the past it has often marked the end of a political career. Nevertheless, the role could also offer new opportunities, especially given the current discussion about the visibility and representation of women in leadership positions. The parallels between Baerbock's status and the possible career of Niels Annen, who is due to move to the top of the UNHCR in 2026, are increasingly being discussed.

The willingness to create resources and a place for women in leadership positions is repeatedly emphasized by leading voices. As Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Prime Minister of Iceland, states, diversity among decision-makers leads to better decisions and thus strengthens the basis for a fairer society.