The United Nations is confronting a critical financial predicament that could severely limit its operations. The organization's chief, António Guterres, has raised alarms about a potential financial collapse if member states continue to neglect their financial commitments.

Fee Delays Threaten Operations

The financial health of the UN is under significant threat, as Guterres warns of the real possibility of running out of funds by July. He emphasized that the failure of member states to make mandatory payments is not just a bureaucratic issue but one that endangers the delivery of crucial programs worldwide.

US Withholding Payments

In a stark example, the United States, historically the largest contributor to the UN, has withheld payments from both the regular and peacekeeping budgets. This move aligns with the U.S. administration's stance that some UN activities do not justify their costs.

Options for Averting Collapse

Guterres has communicated with ambassadors, highlighting that all 193 member countries need to either fulfill their financial obligations or consider a fundamental overhaul of the UN's financial protocols. The secretary-general notes that past financial crises have been significant, but the current situation is unique and more severe.

The Integrity of the UN System

Insufficient contributions have left the UN in a precarious position, impacting its ability to execute approved budgets. Additionally, the mandate to return unspent funds exacerbates the issue, as the organization is expected to reimburse money that was never received.

Urgency for Action

Guterres stresses the immediacy of the need for action, stating, "We cannot execute budgets with uncollected funds." He underscores the necessity of either complete and timely payments by member states or a significant change in financial practices to avert impending collapse.

U.S. Perspective and Contributions

The United States has committed $2 billion to UN humanitarian initiatives, while simultaneously pressing the international body to reform. President Donald Trump has critiqued the organization, arguing it should better realize its potential and has suggested replacing some UN functions with a U.S.-led Board of Peace.

Guterres had earlier alerted to the fragility of the UN's financial situation, citing these recurring unpaid dues. According to him, it marks a "race to bankruptcy," unless the financial issues are promptly addressed.

Source:bbc uk