Former German Foreign Minister Baerbock Elected President of UN General Assembly

In a significant moment for international diplomacy, former German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has been elected president of the upcoming 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The election took place on Monday, conducted via secret ballot among member states. Baerbock secured an overwhelming mandate with 167 votes in favor out of 188 ballots cast, while fourteen member states chose to abstain.

Baerbock is set to assume her new responsibilities in September 2025, stepping into the role held previously by Philemon Yang of Cameroon. In her inaugural remarks to the General Assembly, Baerbock emphasized her commitment to serve all 193 member states as an honest broker and unifier. "As president of the General Assembly, I will engage in a trust-based dialogue with all member states," she stated, promising to prioritize inclusivity and constructive dialogue throughout her tenure.

Highlighting the critical importance of the upcoming session, Baerbock addressed the mounting pressures facing the United Nations. "More than 120 armed conflicts remind us that the primary mission of the United Nations— to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war — remains unaccomplished," she warned. She further stressed that bold and transformative action is essential if the international community hopes to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals as outlined in the Pact for the Future.

Baerbock underscored the indispensable role of the United Nations, asserting, "Nothing would be better without the United Nations." She called for unity and a renewed commitment to preserving and advancing the achievements forged by the organization since its establishment in 1945. "We also need to join efforts now to preserve what the United Nations has achieved... and adapt to emerging future challenges," she urged.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed Baerbock’s election, acknowledging the daunting global landscape she will inherit. He cited ongoing conflicts, climate change, poverty, and growing inequality as immediate threats to international stability. "Mistrust and divisions are rife. The Sustainable Development Goals are alarmingly off track. Aid and development funding are drying up," Guterres noted, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action.

Guterres also highlighted the historic significance of Baerbock's victory, noting that she becomes only the fifth woman to lead the General Assembly in its eighty-year history. He praised Baerbock's "Better Together" vision as an inspiring call to unite the global community and confront pressing issues. "This is a moment for us to unite, to forge common solutions, and to take action to confront these challenges," he concluded.

The General Assembly has played a vital role over the last eight decades, working to build consensus, develop solutions, and advance peace and equality worldwide. As preparations begin for the 80th session, leaders are being called to uphold the values of solidarity and cooperation upon which the institution was founded.

Annalena Baerbock brings extensive experience to her new position. She served as Germany’s federal foreign minister from December 2021 to May 2025. Since 2013, she has been a member of the German Bundestag and previously co-chaired the Greens party from 2018 to 2022. Born in Hanover on December 15, 1980, Baerbock holds a degree in political science from Hamburg University and a Master of Laws from the London School of Economics and Political Science.

With both her diplomatic background and a strong vision for global unity and reform, Baerbock's leadership is expected to shape a pivotal year for the United Nations General Assembly as it faces unprecedented trials and seeks renewed purpose in a fast-changing world.