Annalena Baerbock serves as Germany’s Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, a role she assumed in December 2021. Her appointment marked a significant shift in German foreign policy and signaled a renewed commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation, particularly within the United Nations system. Baerbock’s engagement with the UN reflects her broader political ideology, deeply rooted in environmentalism, human rights, and a rules-based international order.
As Foreign Minister, Baerbock frequently addresses the UN General Assembly and other high-level forums, advocating for stronger international action on climate change. Recognizing the interconnectedness of global challenges, she consistently highlights the need for collaborative solutions through the UN framework. She champions the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing the importance of inclusive development that leaves no one behind. Her speeches often articulate a vision of a more just and equitable world, where the UN plays a central role in maintaining peace and security, promoting human rights, and tackling global challenges.
Baerbock’s approach to the UN is characterized by a pragmatic yet principled stance. While acknowledging the organization’s shortcomings and the need for reform, she strongly defends its legitimacy and crucial role in addressing global issues. She advocates for strengthening UN institutions, particularly the Security Council, and promotes greater representation and inclusivity in decision-making processes. Germany under her leadership has actively sought to increase its contributions to UN peacekeeping operations and humanitarian assistance, demonstrating a tangible commitment to supporting the organization’s work on the ground.
Beyond climate change, Baerbock places considerable emphasis on human rights within the UN system. She has been a vocal critic of human rights violations around the world, using the UN platform to raise awareness and advocate for accountability. She actively supports the work of the UN Human Rights Council and other human rights mechanisms, pushing for stronger monitoring and reporting on human rights abuses. Her focus extends to protecting vulnerable populations, including refugees, migrants, and marginalized communities, and ensuring that their rights are respected and protected under international law.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has significantly shaped Baerbock’s engagement with the UN. She has been a leading voice in condemning the aggression and calling for Russia to be held accountable for its actions. At the UN, she has worked to build international consensus in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, advocating for sanctions and other measures to pressure Russia to end the war. She has also stressed the importance of upholding the UN Charter and the principles of international law in the face of blatant violations. The conflict has underscored her belief in the importance of a strong and united UN to safeguard peace and security and to uphold the rules-based international order. Baerbock’s proactive and principled approach to foreign policy continues to solidify Germany’s role as a key player within the UN system.
1200×1200 annalena baerbock center european studies harvard university from ces.fas.harvard.edu 
4000×2667 annalena baerbock germanys post pacifist generation greens from foreignpolicy.com