In a notable shift in operations, the United Nations, led by Secretary General António Guterres, is making preparations for budget cuts in light of impending reductions in U.S. contributions. A memo, uncovered by The New York Times, outlines an urgent directive for all U.N. agencies to propose budget reductions, including relocating staff from costly cities like New York and Geneva to more affordable locations.
U.N. Prepares for Possible Funding Cuts Amid Trump's Review of U.S. Contributions
U.N. Prepares for Possible Funding Cuts Amid Trump's Review of U.S. Contributions
The U.N. responds to anticipated funding reductions from the Trump administration, creating detailed budget-cutting plans by mid-May.
Dated April 25, the memo emphasizes the need to find operational efficiencies and identify any duplicative services, mandating proposals by May 15 for the 2026 budget. The proactive measures come as President Trump has launched a thorough review of U.S. financial contributions to the U.N., which previously saw a withdrawal from several of its organizations pertaining to critical global issues, such as human rights and climate change.
Three senior U.N. officials, seeking anonymity, expressed that the stringent measures were unexpected and reflect broader financial difficulties faced by the agency. The U.N. simultaneously grapples with challenges including deferred payments from member states and diminishing contributions from significant donors like the U.S. and Europe.
The anticipated cuts signify not just a direct response to U.S. funding changes but signal deeper structural issues within the U.N. that need to be addressed to maintain its operations amid shifting political landscapes.
Three senior U.N. officials, seeking anonymity, expressed that the stringent measures were unexpected and reflect broader financial difficulties faced by the agency. The U.N. simultaneously grapples with challenges including deferred payments from member states and diminishing contributions from significant donors like the U.S. and Europe.
The anticipated cuts signify not just a direct response to U.S. funding changes but signal deeper structural issues within the U.N. that need to be addressed to maintain its operations amid shifting political landscapes.
