Unopposed UN Top Spot: Baerbock to Follow Diplomatic Approach as UN General Assembly President
United Nations Member States are urged to elect Baerbock as President of the General Assembly. - United Nations Assembly set to choose Baerbock as President.
Get ready for a new era in New York! Annalena Baerbock, Germany's Green foreign minister for over three years, is about to dazzle the Big Apple. On Monday (4:00 PM CET), this political powerhouse is set to become President of the UN General Assembly, all going according to plan.
Baerbock is running unopposed for this prestigious, one-year position in the world's largest (193 members!) UN body. Sure, the role is mostly ceremonial and doesn't compare to UN Secretary-General António Guterres—but that doesn't mean it's a walk in the park! The official inauguration will happen on September 9, just before the UN General Debate with world leaders.
As President, Baerbock will wield her might chairing the sessions of the General Assembly and setting agendas. With her strong diplomatic background, she might be able to exert some limited influence on the decision-making processes, especially in prospective elections like the one for the next secretary-general next year. Baerbock's direct line to foreign ministers worldwide and the heads of UN ambassadors in New York could prove essential during these secretive negotiations.
But remember, the mighty UN Security Council, with its five veto powers, wields much more power. This 15-member group can legally bind resolutions, while the political decisions of the General Assembly usually hold more symbolic value, reflecting global sentiment.
"As president, if elected, I will serve all 193 member states - big and small. As a mediator, a unifying force, an ear that listens, and a door that's open," said Baerbock in May when presenting her priorities. This diplomatic approach will be a stark contrast to her tenure as Germany's Foreign Minister, where she often made headlines with her bold stance, especially against Russia.
Baerbock's new post comes with immense financial pressures on the United Nations, partly due to budget cuts by the Trump administration. Stepping up to the plate, Baerbock has announced that she plans to drive reforms and make the most of the General Assembly's resources. Her main priorities include achieving the UN's sustainable development goals, combating the climate crisis, and promoting gender equality.
The election in the plenum before 193 UN member states is typically a formality—only in theory. Normally, the General Assembly confirms personnel without opposition by acclamation, without a formal vote. But, if a country asks for it, a secret ballot could take place.
Russia has been vocal about Baerbock, stating that she is an unsuitable candidate and accusing her of flagrant bias. As Foreign Minister, Baerbock had a hardline stance against Russia, particularly in the context of the Ukraine conflict, and often found herself on Russia's radar.
Originally, Helga Schmid, Germany's top diplomat, was proposed for the position, but was also accepted by Russia. Baerbock's last-minute candidacy, following the lost federal election, has been met with some criticism.
Get to Know Annalena Baerbock
- Envoy to the United Nations
- Leader of the UN General Assembly, pending election on Monday
- Incorporating diplomatic approach in her new role
[1] United Nations. (n.d.). Meet the President of the General Assembly. Retrieved from www.un.org/pga[2] United Nations Association UK. (2020). What does the President of the United Nations General Assembly do? Retrieved from www.unausa.org/what-the-president-does[3] Walker, J. (2021, March 26). Baerbock is latest German to run UNGA presidency race. Deutsche Welle. Retrieved from www.dw.com/en/baerbock-is-latest-german-to-run-unga-presidency-race/a-56962588
Community aid initiatives under Baerbock's presidency of the UN General Assembly might include vocational training programs to equip underprivileged members of the global community with marketable skills, contributing to the UN's sustainable development goals and promoting gender equality. Advocating for such policies could be a significant part of Baerbock's political and diplomatic efforts during her tenure, as she works to address various global challenges within the framework of policy-and-legislation.
As part of her plans to make the most of the General Assembly's resources, Baerbock might also advocate for increased funding for vocational training programs as a means to support economic development in various countries and regions. In collaboration with major donors and the international community, Baerbock's leadership could bolster efforts to provide vocational training opportunities tailored to local needs, ensuring that these programs have a meaningful impact on general-news headlines around the world.
