As the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary, it seeks efficiency improvements and budget cuts amid ongoing financial constraints.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres announced a renewed push to improve efficiency and reduce costs as the organization faces financial strains. He emphasized that the effort is unrelated to the U.S. government’s Department of Government Efficiency under President Donald Trump and Elon Musk.
“We are talking about completely different processes, methodologies, and objectives. This is a continuation and intensification of ongoing work,” Guterres said.
Financial Struggles and Reform Plans
The UN has faced a liquidity crisis for seven years due to delayed or incomplete payments from member states. The 2025 budget is $3.7 billion, but the U.S. owes $1.5 billion, and China now pays its dues later in the year. Only 75 out of 193 member states have fully paid their obligations.
To address the issue, Guterres formed the UN80 task force, led by Under-Secretary-General Guy Ryder, to focus on three key areas:
Efficiency Improvements – Identifying ways to optimize resources and streamline operations.
Mandate Review – Evaluating how well the UN is implementing directives from member states.
Structural Adjustments – Assessing potential long-term changes to improve effectiveness.
Global Uncertainty and UN's Role
Guterres acknowledged that financial challenges come amid growing global instability. He stressed that ensuring financial stability is crucial for the UN’s mission.
“The United Nations has never been more needed. Our values remain relevant, and the challenges are greater than ever,” he said.
The 80th anniversary serves as a moment for the UN to reassess its structure and financial sustainability while continuing its global efforts.
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Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Friday the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Nethanyau is trying out of “utter desperation” to disrupt the current indirect nuclear negotiations process between Iran and the United States.
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Ten blasts were reported near Srinagar International Airport in India-administered Kashmir as tensions between India and Pakistan continue to escalate, prompting global concern over a potential wider conflict.
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Discover every major VE Day 80 event in Britain, 5‑8 May 2025—from London’s parade and fly‑past to street parties, concerts and museum exhibitions.
Chinese e-commerce platform Temu has announced it will no longer sell goods directly from China to U.S. customers, shifting instead to U.S.-based sellers amid the closure of a long-criticized customs loophole.
Cardinals from 70 nations have gathered in Vatican City to begin the historic conclave to elect the next pope, following the death of Pope Francis 17 days ago. This conclave is the most geographically diverse in Church history, showcasing Francis’ legacy of inclusivity.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to unveil fresh sanctions targeting up to 100 Russian oil tankers used to evade international restrictions, in a bid to cut off funding for Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine.
China has agreed to send its top economic official for rare trade talks with the U.S. in Geneva, as deepening economic troubles and geopolitical frictions force Beijing back to the negotiating table.
The United States, along with its European allies, is finalizing a proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, with a strong warning that new sanctions will be imposed on Russia if the truce is not honored, according to a French diplomatic source on Friday.
Ten blasts were reported near Srinagar International Airport in India-administered Kashmir as tensions between India and Pakistan continue to escalate, prompting global concern over a potential wider conflict.
Ukraine and Hungary announced on Friday the mutual expulsion of two diplomats each, following accusations from both sides of espionage activities.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to unveil fresh sanctions targeting up to 100 Russian oil tankers used to evade international restrictions, in a bid to cut off funding for Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Friday the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Nethanyau is trying out of “utter desperation” to disrupt the current indirect nuclear negotiations process between Iran and the United States.
China has agreed to send its top economic official for rare trade talks with the U.S. in Geneva, as deepening economic troubles and geopolitical frictions force Beijing back to the negotiating table.
The United States, along with its European allies, is finalizing a proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, with a strong warning that new sanctions will be imposed on Russia if the truce is not honored, according to a French diplomatic source on Friday.
Ten blasts were reported near Srinagar International Airport in India-administered Kashmir as tensions between India and Pakistan continue to escalate, prompting global concern over a potential wider conflict.
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