Key facts
- Germany failed to secure a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council in a vote by the General Assembly.
- Portugal and Austria were elected to the two available seats.
- German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul cited Germany's support for Israel and alleged Russian interference as reasons for the loss.
- The defeat is seen as a significant diplomatic setback for Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his government.
- Austria and Portugal campaigned on platforms of neutrality and multilateralism.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany experienced a significant diplomatic setback on Wednesday when the United Nations General Assembly elected Portugal and Austria to two non-permanent seats on the Security Council, bypassing Germany.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul attributed the unexpected loss, which he described as a "bitter defeat," partly to Berlin's "steadfast support for Israel," suggesting it cost the country crucial votes. He also accused Russia of actively working against Germany's bid due to its "unwavering support" for Ukraine.
Germany has historically secured one of the Western European seats on the Security Council every eight years, and Wadephul had led an extensive lobbying campaign. However, delegates ultimately favored Portugal and Austria, which campaigned on their neutrality and commitment to multilateralism.
Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker stated that his country would defend multilateralism, emphasizing that "the strength of the law" should prevail over "the right of the strongest." Portugal has also recently consolidated its global standing, benefiting from its role as a neutral intermediary.
The outcome drew sharp criticism from domestic political opponents in Germany. Alice Weidel, co-leader of the far-right AfD party, called the defeat an "embarrassment" and a sign of Merz's failure to restore Germany's international standing. Adis Ahmetovic, foreign policy spokesman for the governing SPD party, characterized the vote as a "gauge of how [Germany] is perceived internationally" and a "warning sign."