New York (KAAB TV) – United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced that he is initiating reforms within the international organization to strengthen its operations and reduce costs, following a prolonged financial crisis.
“Resources are running out—and this has been the case for a long time,” Guterres told reporters.
The United Nations, marking its 80th anniversary this year, has been named UN80. Guterres aims to accelerate the first major reform since assuming office in 2017. His goal is to make the organization more effective and cost-efficient.
While Guterres did not specify the exact savings or potential job cuts the reform could bring, he emphasized that the process would begin immediately, particularly in areas where he holds authority. Issues requiring approval from the 193 member countries of the General Assembly will be put forward for further consideration.
This initiative will be overseen by a 14-member committee within the UN. Guterres made a point of distinguishing this effort from DOGE, the U.S. department led by Elon Musk, which focuses on improving the efficiency of U.S. government agencies and has led to thousands of layoffs.
“We are talking about a completely different process, with distinct procedures and goals. This is a continuation and strengthening of the work we’ve already done,” said Secretary Guterres.
Since taking office, Guterres has faced growing financial challenges at the UN, partly due to many countries failing to pay their dues on time or in full.
Additionally, the financial strain was exacerbated when the administration of President Trump drastically reduced voluntary aid to UN funds, agencies, and programs, canceled foreign aid programs, and began withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO). These actions raised concerns about the UN’s financial stability, as the United States is the largest donor to the organization.