In a remarkable setback for Berlin’s diplomatic efforts, Germany has failed to secure a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for 2026, according to Deutschland in English.
Germany’s campaign ended unsuccessfully in the first round of voting at the UN General Assembly in New York, with Austria and Portugal securing the available seats.
General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock said that Germany received 104 votes, well below the 127 needed to achieve the required two-thirds majority.
This defeat marked Berlin’s first unsuccessful bid for a Security Council seat since reunification in 1990.
Commenting on the failure, Chancellor Friedrich Merz acknowledged the setback on social media but emphasized Germany’s commitment to the United Nations and the multilateral system.
Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul labeled the result as a “bitter loss” and a “heavy setback” for Germany’s international standing.
The German government has come under mounting criticism due to its lack of visibility and decisive action on international affairs, particularly in cases involving violations of international law.
Opposition parties, including the Greens and Die Linke, have attributed this setback to the government.
By failing to secure a seat on the Security Council, Germany will be absent from crucial discussions on global peace and security for the next two years.
Berlin’s defeat came amid concerns over Germany’s relatively late entry into the race, alongside criticism linked to its stance on controversial international issues, particularly the conflict in Gaza.
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