UN Chief Says Billions in U.S. Dues Must Be Paid Without Conditions Amid Funding Dispute

Secretary-General rejects linking assessed contributions to reform demands as financial pressures mount.

By yourNEWS Media Newsroom

Antonio Guterres said that billions in funds owed by the United States to the United Nations are ‘non-negotiable’ and cannot be tied to policy conditions, responding to reports that Washington is seeking reforms before releasing additional payments.

Speaking to reporters, Guterres said, “The money we are talking about is referred to as assessed contributions,” adding, “Assessed contributions are an obligation of member states. They are non-negotiable.”

The remarks follow reporting from Devex that U.S. officials circulated diplomatic proposals outlining a series of reforms as a condition for releasing further funding. The proposals reportedly include cost-cutting measures and steps aimed at limiting China’s influence within the organization.

According to the report, suggested changes include restructuring the U.N. pension system, reducing business-class travel for staff, cutting senior-level positions, and decreasing funding for certain peacekeeping operations. The proposals also include measures intended to restrict contributions from China to discretionary funds managed within the secretary-general’s office.

Guterres acknowledged ongoing reform efforts but emphasized that funding obligations and structural changes should be treated separately. “We will do our best to make sure that we make this organization as effective and as cost-effective and as able to deliver for the people we care for,” he said, adding, “But these are two separate things.”

The funding dispute comes amid broader tensions between the United States and the United Nations over governance and budget priorities. U.S. officials have repeatedly called for changes to the institution, while also reducing financial contributions and withdrawing from several U.N.-affiliated bodies.

Earlier this year, Guterres warned that the organization faced a severe financial situation due to unpaid contributions, with a significant portion attributed to U.S. arrears. As of February, the United States had paid approximately $160 million of more than $4 billion owed, according to U.N. figures.

The situation underscores ongoing debates over funding responsibilities, institutional reform, and the role of major contributors in shaping the direction of the United Nations.