United Nations — United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a stark warning to member states that the world body faces the risk of financial collapse if outstanding contributions are not paid, underscoring a deepening budget crisis that threatens core UN operations.
In a letter to UN member governments circulated on Wednesday, Guterres said the organization closed 2025 with a record $1.568 billion in unpaid dues — more than double the amount it faced the previous year. The unpaid contributions, he said, have pushed the UN’s regular budget cash to the brink, with available funds projected to run out as early as July unless payments arrive promptly.
“The inability to pay assessments in full and on time risks a financial crisis that could undermine our ability to fulfil the purposes and principles of the United Nations,” Guterres wrote, emphasizing that contributions are a legal obligation under the UN Charter for all member states.
At the center of the shortfall is the United States, which contributes 22 percent of the UN’s regular budget and remains the single largest debtor. Under the administration of President Donald Trump, U.S. criticism of the UN has intensified, with demands for organizational reforms and efficiency measures. Trump’s government has pressed for changes including staff relocations and the reorganization of certain UN units.
Guterres acknowledged progress in some reform efforts but stressed that budgetary compliance from member states is critical to sustaining the UN’s work on peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance, sustainable development and global health.
“The financial crisis is not a distant possibility,” Guterres told diplomats. “It is imminent unless member states meet their obligations.”
Other large contributors, including countries in Europe and Asia, also hold significant unpaid assessments, complicating efforts to close the funding gap. Each member’s contribution share is calculated based on its capacity to pay, reflecting economic size and relative wealth.
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The secretary-general’s warning has prompted urgent consultations among UN officials and diplomatic missions in New York, as leaders consider emergency measures and appeals to governments to fulfil their financial commitments.
Failure to resolve the shortfall could force the United Nations to suspend activities or delay critical programs, officials said, raising concerns about the organization’s ability to respond to global crises this year.