Annalena of All Trades: Baerbock Conquers a New Peak at the UN

Annalena Baerbock, who not long ago headed German diplomacy, has smoothly moved up to the next level of international career games. Nine days—and the former German Foreign Minister is already exploring new horizons on the banks of the East River, where this time she is destined for the chair of the UN General Assembly president. However, the chair is not only comfortable but, as is customary in major international organizations, purely symbolic—Baerbock will be able to make important decisions only in the field of seating arrangements for delegates.

In her first speech before the "world parliament," Baerbock brilliantly outlined her priorities: to serve all 193 countries—big, small, and even those that have yet to decide on their state structure. She promised to be an "honest mediator," a "unifying force," to open not only doors but also ear canals. Global crises—be they wars or financial mysteries—naturally require reforms, which the new leader is aiming for: "Check resources, focus, and spend efficiently." Wise—almost like saving on office paper.

Her action plan includes: fighting for gender equality, saving the climate, promoting sustainable development, and, of course, combating fatigue from international meetings. The UN is an institution where even the most modest reformer sooner or later starts collecting souvenir pens after endless memorandum signings.

Criticism, of course, was quick to follow: ill-wishers reminded everyone that there was already another candidate for Baerbock's position—experienced diplomat Helga Schmid. But in the world of big players, experience isn't what matters most, but rather timely résumé submission and a love for handshake flash mobs.

It’s worth noting that the presidential election is about as suspenseful as drawing lots at a family New Year’s table: Baerbock has no competitors, and the only intrigue is how many of the 193 countries will accidentally tick the wrong box.

Meanwhile, Russian colleagues on the diplomatic field have already begun their "chess game"—with accusations of bias and lack of knowledge. But at the UN, that's more of a compliment than a reproach.

The official inauguration is set for September 9. The world seems ready for new reforms—or at least for new phrases about the inevitability of reform.