Guterres states that the US financial obligations to the UN are ‘non-negotiable’
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has stated that the billions of dollars owed by the US to the world body are “non-negotiable.”
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has stated that financial contributions owed by member states, including the United States, are “non-negotiable” in light of reports indicating that Washington has imposed conditions on the release of outstanding funds to the organization.
The statement comes in response to a report by Devex, which claims that the United States distributed diplomatic notes suggesting a series of “quick-hit” reforms as a condition for additional payments. These reportedly encompass cost-reduction strategies throughout UN operations, reorganization of internal frameworks, and initiatives designed to curtail what Washington perceives as increasing Chinese influence within the organization.
In response to inquiries from journalists, Guterres emphasized that assessed contributions to the United Nations represent a binding obligation for all member states and should not be open to political negotiation. He acknowledged that the UN is dedicated to enhancing efficiency and minimizing operational costs whenever feasible.
“The funds we are discussing are known as assessed contributions.” Member states have an obligation to fulfill assessed contributions. “They are non-negotiable,” he stated.
In recognizing the continuous reform initiatives within the UN system, Guterres made a distinct separation between efforts aimed at enhancing internal efficiency and the financial obligations of member states.
The US proposals outlined include reforms like revamping the UN pension system, limiting business-class travel for specific staff categories, decreasing senior leadership roles, and reducing funding for established peacekeeping operations. Another reported condition aims to prevent China from directing discretionary funding into the UN Secretary-General’s office, a strategy designed to limit Beijing’s influence.
The United States Mission to the United Nations has yet to make a public statement regarding the reports. Washington has consistently advocated for reforms within the UN and has previously cut funding and withdrawn from various UN-related bodies.
The funding dispute arises during a time of increasing financial pressure on the organization. Earlier this year, Guterres cautioned that the UN was on the brink of “imminent financial collapse” because of unpaid dues, with the United States responsible for a substantial share of the arrears. According to UN figures, Washington has settled only a small portion of the over $4 billion it owes, even though it has made some partial payments.
