Guterres called for an urgent solution for the unpaid debts of the UN.

Serious Warnings from the UN Secretary-General

In a letter, António Guterres highlighted the seriousness of the current financial situation of the United Nations (UN). Guterres drew attention to the fact that the organization is "facing a turning point," stating that "the current course is unsustainable."

Debt Reaches Record Levels

Guterres emphasized that by 2025, the UN would be faced with a record level of unpaid debts amounting to 1 billion 568 million dollars. He pointed out that this amount has doubled compared to the previous year, saying, "The crisis is deepening, threatening the implementation of programs and increasing the risk of financial collapse. And the situation is likely to worsen in the near future." He noted that member states need to either improve their payment of dues or reconsider the UN's financial regulations to rectify this situation.

Risk of Financial Collapse

Guterres warned that the 2026 program budget may not be fully implemented and expressed concern that the regular budget cash flow would be depleted by July. The Secretary-General stated, "All member states must fulfill their obligations for full and timely payments," emphasizing the urgency of achieving financial stability.

Status of Member Countries and Dues Arrears

At the top of the list of unpaid dues to the UN is the United States, with a debt amounting to 2 billion 196 million dollars. Following this, Venezuela has 38 million dollars, while Mexico owes approximately 20 million dollars.

UN's Liquidity Issue

UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq stated at a press conference that the Secretary-General’s letter highlighted the seriousness of the current financial situation. Haq said, "When it comes to payment, it's either now or never. We do not have sufficient cash reserves and liquidity to continue our operations as we did in previous years."