Baerbock’s move to UN sparks tensions within Foreign Ministry

The announcement of Annalena Baerbock’s transition to the United Nations has caused unease within Germany's Foreign Ministry, with diplomats expressing concern over how the minister displaced the former frontrunner for the position.

Some worry that the shift could undermine Germany's influence on the global stage, Caliber.Az reports, citing German media.

It was initially believed that Helga Schmid, a senior German diplomat, would take over the role of President of the UN General Assembly, a decision previously confirmed by the government and communicated by Baerbock. However, when it was revealed in recent weeks that Baerbock herself would assume the post, diplomats were left stunned.

Many in the Foreign Ministry are now contemplating the potential consequences of Baerbock’s unexpected move, both for Germany's international standing and for internal relations within the ministry.

Tensions are particularly high within the department responsible for preparing Germany’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council, where Germany, Austria, and Portugal are competing for one of the two available spots for Western nations in the 2026 election.

Although Baerbock, as President of the General Assembly, would be expected to remain neutral, there are concerns that her past as Germany’s Foreign Minister might cost the country votes in the Global South, which are crucial for securing a majority. Baerbock’s strong support for Ukraine and Israel has raised apprehensions in parts of Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia, where her positions are seen as pro-Western.

Her unexpected intervention has led to dissatisfaction within the Foreign Ministry, where many feel the diplomatic career of Helga Schmid—a respected figure in international circles—was unfairly sidelined. Schmid had garnered significant respect for her leadership at the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and had already laid the groundwork for her potential role at the UN.

Baerbock’s manoeuvre has sparked debate within the ministry, with some questioning whether such last-minute decisions threaten the stability and predictability of diplomatic careers. Many diplomats feel the timing of Baerbock’s move does little to enhance Germany’s standing on the world stage, especially given Schmid’s extensive preparations for the role.

Baerbock is set to move to New York this summer with her two daughters. Her UN post is for one year, after which she will likely need to seek new opportunities. Speculation has already begun within the Green Party as to whether she could run as a candidate for the European Parliament in 2029, following her tenure in New York.

By Aghakazim Guliyev