Monitoring Policy Making at the United Nations |
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UN Finance
The United Nations and all its agencies and funds spend about $20 billion each year, or about $3 for each of the world's inhabitants. This is a very small sum compared to most government budgets and it is just a tiny fraction of the world's military spending. Yet for nearly two decades, the UN has faced a financial difficulties and it has been forced to cut back on important programs in all areas. Many member states have not paid their full dues and have cut their donations to the UN's voluntary funds. As of December 31, 2007, members' arrears to the Regular Budget topped $428 million, of which the United States alone owed $393 million (92% of the regular budget arrears).
Many proposals for UN reform deal with restructuring the UN's funding. Some suggest that the UN must seek alternative financing sources to fund its programs. Proposals include instituting a global tax on currency transactions, while others propose environmental taxes and taxes on the arms-trade. However, member states responsible for the highest contributions are reluctant to reform the system, fearing they would lose political leverage. This section examines the UN’s financial condition and offers proposals for alternative financing of the UN.
Also See GPF's Pages on:
UN Reform
Background Information and Analysis on UN Finance
This section provides some background information on UN finance, including a history and a detailed chronology of the UN financial situation.Tables and Charts on UN Finance
This section provides tables and charts on UN finance, including data on member states’ assessments, payments and debts to the UN budgets.General Articles on UN Finance
This section posts articles and documents on the UN financial situation, including the status of member states’ payments to the UN and how some countries, including in particular the US, fail to pay on time and in full.UN Documents on UN Finance
This section posts UN Press releases and other UN documents on the state of UN finances.Peacekeeping Finance
This section posts articles and other information on Peacekeeping Finance.Financing of UN Programmes, Funds and Specialized Agencies
This section posts articles and other information on the financing of UN Specialized Agencies, Programmes and Funds.Alternative Financing for the UN
This section provides information on alternative financing proposals (of the UN and development in general), including global taxes.Taking Action on UN Finance
This section includes information on the Millennium Mobilization, a call for action, and other activities related to the UN's financial dificulties.Links and Resources on UN Finance
This section provides links and resources related to UN finances.
