Baerbock inaugurated as President of the United Nations General Assembly

In a historic moment, Annalena Baerbock, a former German Foreign Minister, has been elected as the President of the United Nations General Assembly. The 44-year-old Green politician will lead the sessions of the General Assembly and manage the agenda and order of business, marking her first step into her one-year term.

Baerbock's presidency comes at a crucial time for the UN, which stands at a crossroads and is under financial and political pressure. She was elected with an overwhelming majority in June and will oversee the upcoming General Debate of the UN General Assembly with heads of state from around the world, starting on September 23, 2025.

The first General Assembly of the United Nations under Baerbock's presidency takes place on September 9, 2025, in New York. The session is officially opened with her inauguration as president, and the General Debate with heads of state begins on September 23, 2025.

Baerbock's aim is to work exclusively in the interest of the United Nations, as she stated, "Show why this organization is still relevant." She intends to demonstrate the relevance of the UN General Assembly and will give a speech during her first session, scheduled for later in the day.

Philemon Yang, the former Prime Minister of Cameroon, previously held the position of President of the UN General Assembly. Yang bid farewell to Baerbock, urging her to take the General Assembly to new heights. UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his eagerness to work with Baerbock "to find global solutions for global problems."

Baerbock was sworn into her new role in New York, placing her hand on the original UN Charter. The position of President of the UN General Assembly is primarily of protocol significance, but Baerbock's election marks a significant milestone as she becomes the fifth woman to hold the position.

Despite the challenges ahead, Baerbock's election has been met with optimism. The UN General Assembly's decisions often have more symbolic value and reflect a global consensus. As Baerbock navigates through her presidency, the world watches with anticipation, hoping for a brighter future for the United Nations.

The road ahead is not easy, but with Baerbock at the helm, the UN General Assembly is poised to tackle the challenges and strive for a more peaceful and sustainable world. The memory of a Russian interference attempt during Baerbock's election serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that lie ahead, but the spirit of unity and cooperation remains strong.

As the General Debate approaches, the world awaits Baerbock's leadership and her vision for the United Nations. The UN, under her presidency, stands at a crossroads, but with Baerbock's determination and commitment, it may just find its way forward.