Newly Elected President Assumes Office in UN General Assembly

Annalena Baerbock has officially assumed the role of President of the UN General Assembly, becoming the fifth woman to hold the position in its 76-year history. The 80th session of the General Assembly commenced with Baerbock taking over from Philemon Yang, the former Prime Minister of Cameroon.

Baerbock's tenure begins amidst significant challenges and political and financial pressure. In her acceptance speech, she pledged to lead the UN General Assembly as an "honest mediator" with unifying strength. The swearing-in ceremony took place at 17:00 CEST, followed by her opening speech at the first session scheduled for 21:00 CEST.

Baerbock, at 44 years old, is the youngest President of the UN General Assembly in recent history. Her focus as President will be on achieving the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, combating the climate crisis, and promoting gender equality.

In addition to her political career, Baerbock has made headlines with her social media presence, including a video on Instagram in the style of "Sex and the City." Another video shows her joking about her German accent in English. After being sworn in, she will take questions from journalists.

The role of the UN General Assembly President is primarily ceremonial and should not be confused with that of UN Secretary-General António Guterres. Baerbock will chair the General Assembly's sessions, manage proceedings, and set the agenda, including the upcoming General Debate in late September.

Baerbock's election to the position was met with an overwhelming majority in June. However, the Russian government attempted interference in her election. Despite these attempts, Baerbock has pledged to drive reforms and use the resources of the General Assembly as efficiently as possible.

Philemon Yang, the predecessor of Baerbock, has officially stepped down from his role. The first session under Baerbock's presidency marks a new chapter for the UN General Assembly, as it navigates the complex challenges of the modern world.