Following Germany’s defeat in the election for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) is considering budget cuts to German commitments to the UN. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” (Thursday edition), Wadephul stated that “it cannot be that we are one of the largest contributors and are not taken into account in some decisions, including personnel matters.”
While clarifying that this is not a push for dominance, the Minister added that the United Nations must assume Germany will more clearly define its position in the future. He also announced that the Bundestag will examine individual commitments in the budget more closely.
However, when discussing potential reductions in humanitarian aid within the federal budget, Wadephul advocated for increased involvement. He stressed that the necessity for such action appears in nearly every second news report. He plans to discuss this further in the cabinet, followed by parliamentary debate, adding that it serves Germany’s own interests. He pointed out that the major refugee wave in 2015 was essentially driven by humanitarian reasons, and steps must be taken to prevent such a situation from recurring.
