United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has declared that financial contributions owed by member states, including the United States, are “non-negotiable,” amid reports that Washington has attached conditions to the release of outstanding funds to the world body.
The statement follows a report by Devex alleging that the United States circulated diplomatic notes proposing a set of “quick-hit” reforms as a prerequisite for further payments. These reportedly include cost-cutting measures across UN operations, restructuring of internal systems, and steps aimed at limiting what Washington views as growing Chinese influence within the organisation.
Responding to questions from reporters, Guterres stressed that assessed contributions to the United Nations are a binding obligation for all member states and cannot be subject to political bargaining. He, however, noted that the UN remains committed to improving efficiency and reducing operational costs where possible.
“The money we are talking about is referred to as assessed contributions. Assessed contributions are an obligation of member states. They are non-negotiable,” he said.
While acknowledging ongoing reform efforts within the UN system, Guterres drew a clear distinction between internal efficiency drives and member states’ financial responsibilities.
The reported US proposals include reforms such as overhauling the UN pension system, restricting business-class travel for certain categories of staff, reducing senior leadership positions, and cutting funding for long-running peacekeeping operations. Another reported condition seeks to block China from directing discretionary funding into the UN Secretary-General’s office, a move aimed at curbing Beijing’s influence.
The United States Mission to the United Nations has not publicly commented on the reports. However, Washington has consistently pushed for reforms within the UN and has previously reduced funding and withdrawn from several UN-related bodies.
The funding dispute comes amid growing financial strain at the organisation. Earlier this year, Guterres warned that the UN faced “imminent financial collapse” due to unpaid dues, with the United States accounting for a significant portion of arrears. UN figures indicate that Washington has paid only a fraction of more than $4 billion it owes, despite making partial payments.
Melissa Enoch
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