UNITED NATIONS — With the United Nations nearing its 80th anniversary, the organization’s leader announced a new initiative aimed at reforming the 193-member global body to address pressing challenges amid decreasing funding. The UN80 Initiative, unveiled by Secretary-General António Guterres on Wednesday, is designed to adapt the institution to better tackle global issues without directly connecting to the recent cutbacks in foreign aid under U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration and businessman Elon Musk’s suggestions for greater efficiency in the government.
Guterres emphasized that the purpose of the initiative is to propose enhancements for the organization’s operations, reviewing how the Security Council and General Assembly set mandates, and introducing structural changes for more efficient functioning. This initiative extends work that has traditionally been part of the U.N.’s objectives, he told reporters.
Historically, both Guterres and his predecessors have faced challenges in modernizing the United Nations, which was created post-World War II, to align with contemporary powers and technological advances amidst increasing global divides. The secretary-general pointed out that while he holds the role of the UN’s chief executive, real authority is with the 193 member states, each having varied perspectives on the role of the U.N.
The U.N. has faced criticism for not effectively maintaining international peace and security, as evidenced by ongoing conflicts in regions like Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, and Congo. Despite these critiques, the U.N. has been integral in delivering humanitarian aid and supporting refugees and children worldwide.
Recent moves by President Trump include signing an executive order to evaluate the operations of some U.N. agencies, questioning their alignment with the goal of sustaining global peace. Trump remarked on the organization’s untapped potential and the need for reform, stating that the U.N. needs to improve significantly to meet its original objectives.
Reflecting on today’s global uncertainties, Guterres noted that the U.N.’s operations are hindered by persistent conflicts, insufficient poverty alleviation efforts, breaches of international law, human rights violations, and a lack of regulation for advanced technologies like artificial intelligence. These hurdles are worsened by major reductions in funding for humanitarian aid and development cooperation.
Without naming specific nations, Guterres highlighted the repercussions of reduced funding, such as the dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development and significant program cuts by the Trump administration, alongside similar reductions from countries like the United Kingdom.
He cautioned about the organization’s ongoing liquidity issues, which have persisted for over seven years due to member states’ late or missing financial contributions.
The UN80 Initiative transcends merely overhauling administrative processes; it seeks to better serve those dependent on the U.N.’s aid and the global taxpayers funding its operations. Guterres confirmed the initiative will encompass the U.N. Secretariat and extend to its various funds, agencies, and offices globally. The initiative will be spearheaded by U.N. Undersecretary-General for Policy Guy Ryder, who will assemble a task force comprising senior officials from across the U.N. system.
The United Nations’ budget for 2025, approved last December, stands at $3.72 billion. The United States, representing the globe’s largest economy, is anticipated to contribute 22% of the budget. Meanwhile, China, now with the second-largest economy, recently saw its share increased to 20%.
Guterres aims to swiftly implement reforms within his jurisdiction and will encourage member states to deliberate over numerous decisions that remain within their purview.
