Annalena Baerbock, Germany’s ex-foreign minister, was elected on Monday as president of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, overcoming significant opposition from Russia.
Typically, the presidency of the UN General Assembly is a largely ceremonial position selected annually in an uncontested vote where member countries take turns nominating candidates. The election usually occurs by acclamation, but this year Russia requested a secret ballot due to its strong objections to Baerbock’s candidacy, according to diplomatic sources.
Baerbock became a candidate only in March after she announced her intention to step down as Germany’s foreign minister following the February parliamentary elections. She replaced diplomat Helga Schmid, who had been Germany’s original nominee for the UN role announced the previous year.
Russia criticized Baerbock sharply, accusing her of “incompetence, extreme bias and lack of understanding of the basic principles of diplomacy.” Dmitry Polyanskiy, Russia’s Deputy Ambassador to the UN, condemned Berlin’s decision to back Baerbock as “spitting in the face of the world organisation” and showing blatant disrespect.
Despite the opposition, Baerbock won the secret ballot decisively, securing 167 votes in her favor. Seven countries voted for Schmid, and 14 abstained.
After her election, Baerbock pledged to foster dialogue and cooperation, stating, “As the President of the General Assembly, I will engage in a trust-based dialogue with all Member States. My door will always be open for everyone.”