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UN Finance
2005
Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995 | 1994UN Members Approve Two-Year Budget (December 24, 2005)
The UN General Assembly agreed on a two-year budget with a $950 million spending cap for the first six months of 2006. Member states, mainly the major donors like the US and the EU, have made the budget negotiations for the second term contingent on adoption of management reforms. Several poor countries have criticized the link between reforms and the new budget arguing that it is a “coercive measure” by rich countries to impose “their vision of the reform” on the rest of the world. (Associated Press)The UN: Pay As You Like It? (December 8, 2005)
US Ambassador to the UN John Bolton proposed that member states pay only for the UN programs that they support. The Globalist criticizes this “pay-what-you-wish” proposal, which could turn the UN system into a “Darwinian jungle” where only the fittest survive. This “cut and gut” proposal could also create resentment and animosity within the UN towards Washington, further isolating the US government.US Calls for Delay in UN Budget Unless Reforms Met (November 23, 2005)
The US ambassador to the UN John Bolton threatens to block the two-year UN budget if the organization does not approve all management and reform proposals by the end of 2005. While Bolton pressures the UN General Assembly to approve what he calls “management reform,” he also questions the usefulness of the organization as “the main global problem solver.” Bolton also threatens to withhold US dues to the organization, which could severely undermine the effectiveness of many of its operations. (Reuters)Let’s Put on Some Institutional Muscle (October 19, 2005)
The international response to natural disasters such as the South Asian Tsunami, Hurricane Katrina in the US and the earthquake in Pakistan was neither prompt nor coordinated enough. Britain's Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown and Secretary of State for International Development Hilary Benn point out the dire need for better funding for UN agencies. Countries should increase their donations to the UN’s Central Emergency Revolving Fund and the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Additionally, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank should offer emergency assistance to disaster-struck countries. (International Herald Tribune)New UN Global Emergency Fund Needs Immediate Pledges to Save Lives (October 24, 2005)
Oxfam International has published a paper on how rich countries failed to finance the UN Central Emergency Revolving Fund (CERF). The US, Belgium, Italy, France, Canada and Australia have failed to pledge money to the fund, which aims at responding to humanitarian disasters like the earthquake in Pakistan and famine in Niger. This paper argues that the lack of funding to UN humanitarian initiatives severely undermines the organization’s operations in response to emergencies.A Fund for Families (October 17, 2005)
Although Congress has approved a $34 million payout to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) each year, US President George Bush has refused to release the amount since 2002. However, opposing their government policies regarding UNFPA, ordinary US citizens donated $2.7 million to the Fund. Withholding the contributions to the UNFPA contradicts the US commitment to the Millennium Goals and its self-proclaimed statues as a “rich country with a claim to world leadership” that addresses poverty, hunger, and global diseases. (Boston Globe)Japan Rethinking Plan for Security Council (September 30, 2005)
Japan shows increasing signs of displeasure with the UN since failing to get a permanent seat on the Security Council at the Millennium+5 Summit. Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi claims his government faces growing pressure from the Japanese population to scale back its dues to the UN because citizens no longer believe the country is getting its money's worth. UN officials warned Japan that withholding dues would only delay UN reform and alienate other member states. Japan pays 19.5 percent of the annual UN budget of $1.8 billion, second only to the United States, whose contributions amount to 22 percent when paid in full. (Associated Press)What Price Human Rights? (September 29, 2005)
While the UN is the main international organization that protects and promotes human rights, its operations are constantly underfunded. Wealthier member states like the US never pay their dues on time or in full. This article points out that Washington donated almost 8 times as much in military assistance to Israel than it gave to the UN in 2004. Similarly, the cost of the US invasion of Iraq “would operate all the UN programs for at least 14 years.” Unfortunately, the amount the US allocates to the UN for human rights programs is “pitiful.” (Pambazuka)Senior UN Official Briefs US Congressional Panel on Advances in UN Reform (September 28, 2005)
In a move that surprised many observers, the US-installed UN Chief of Staff Mark Malloch Brown spoke in strong support of the UN at a US Congressional panel briefing. Malloch Brown condemned the Hyde Amendment, a bill that authorizes the US to withhold its UN dues if certain conditions are not met. Malloch Brown warned Congress that other UN member states would regard this as unilateralist, and would retaliate by refusing to compromise on issues in the US interest. (UN News)Bush Hurts Women When He Nixes Funds for UN (August 17, 2005)
Although Congress has promised to give $34 million to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) each year, the Bush administration consistently refuses to approve this “voluntary contribution.” In addition to withholding these voluntary contributions, the US has repeatedly fallen behind in its dues to the UN. Interestingly, “the cost of UN dues to an individual American has never exceeded 25 cents per year, far less than that of a small country like Cape Verde, which pays $28.92 for every citizen each year.” (Women's eNews)The Battle of Turtle Bay (August 17, 2005)
US President George Bush, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and other administration officials have stressed the importance of transforming the United Nations into an effective 21st century institution. However, the appointment of John Bolton as the US ambassador to the UN and the approval of the Hyde UN Reform Act by the House of Representatives threaten to undermine these reform efforts. The Hyde Act mandates cutting 50% of US dues to the UN unless the UN implements 39 reforms detailed in the Act by 2007. If the US wants to play an active role in retooling the UN into a “stronger” institution, is appointing an ambassador with a long history of “no carrots” diplomacy and withholding US dues to the UN the right way to go? (TomPaine)Japan Sees Risk of UN Aid Cut If Council Bid Fails (July 28, 2005)
If the resolution of the Group of Four on Security Council expansion fails, G-4 member Japan says Tokyo may feel “domestic pressure” to cut its contributions to the United Nations. Japan is the second-highest payer to the UN, behind the US, and a drop in the country’s regular assessments could deepen the current UN financial crisis. (Reuters)UN Reform Bill Would Allow US to Withhold Dues (July 13, 2005)
A new bill sponsored by two US senators would give the US the right, but not the requirement, to withhold dues if the United Nations does not carry out US dictated reforms. Unlike the earlier Hyde bill, still under consideration, this measure simply permits, rather than mandates, the US President to withhold fifty percent of dues should the UN make no “progress” towards the reforms it demands. However, it is no less dangerous. If passed or amended in a compromise between the two proposals, it threatens further financial crises and unilateral bullying at the UN. (Associated Press)White House Tries to Halt GOP Effort to Withhold UN Dues (June 16, 2005)
The Bush administration has formally announced its opposition to the Republican sponsored ‘United Nations Reform Bill’ and its attempt to force UN reform through the withholding of US dues. Citing fears that an assault on UN finances would reduce US credibility and bargaining power, the State Department has backed up the White House in “outright opposition” to the Bill. (New York Times)Hammering the UN (June 11, 2005)
This Washington Post article points out that while UN reform is desirable, the Hyde bill introduced in the US Congress is rather distasteful: “this is like using a sledgehammer to drive a nail into an antique table: even if you're aiming at the right nail, you're going to cause damage.” The bill demands that the organization carry out a list of reforms or risk losing 50 per cent of US payments. However, supporting the institution rather than threatening it would best serve US interests.Congress Moves to Cut UN Funding (June 8, 2005)
An influential US Congress Committee has approved Representative Henry Hyde’s United Nations Reform Act, taking it one major leap closer to becoming law. Presented in a “unilateral and threatening” manner, if approved by the Senate the bill will require the US to withhold half of its assessed financial contribution to the UN unless the organization agrees to sweeping reforms. Some of Washington’s diktats include new de-stabilizing funding arrangements, as well as the demoting of programs the US dislikes. This bill would seriously deepen the UN’s financial crisis. (Inter Press Service)US Bill Would Demand UN Reform (May 20, 2005)
Republican Representative Henry Hyde has drafted a bill for the US Congress which seeks to slash US financing for “useless” UN programs. By calling for independent and voluntary funding, Hyde argues that the programs will enjoy increased transparency and efficiency – although the idea of an efficient, under-funded agency appears to be rather contradictory. This seems like a clear case of saber-rattling to push the US agenda, but withholding dues may very well isolate the US from its allies. (Associated Press)Senate Votes to Cut US Share of UN Peacekeeping (April 6, 2005)
The US Senate has voted to decrease US contributions to UN peacekeeping costs from 27.1 percent to 25 percent of the total peacekeeping budget. Those senators who support the move say it will “boost US negotiating power” in matters of UN reform. Opponents believe the funding cut delivers a “double whammy” to the UN, after Washington named John Bolton as its UN ambassador. (UN News)Act Globally, Get Stuck Locally (February 25, 2005)
The state and city of New York have agreed to supply a $1.2 billion federal loan to the United Nations to renovate its headquarters. Some New York politicians balk at the idea of providing financial assistance to the UN, citing unpaid parking tickets as proof that the institution will not pay its debts. “Never mind that […] the organization has never missed a rent payment,” responds the New York Times, and “boosts the local economy by $2.5 billion a year.”
2004
Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995 | 1994General Assembly Votes for Funds to Strengthen World Body’s Security (December 27, 2004)
In response to Secretary General Kofi Annan’s proposal to increase UN security, the General Assembly has approved nearly $54 million for the task and agreed to merge the existing security departments into a single Directorate of Security. This article considers it a promising step “beyond the declarations of principle” towards the realization of reform. (UN News)FY2005 Omnibus Spending Bill Enacted into Law, Providing US Contributions to UN System; Peacekeeping Request Cut (December 10, 2004)
The US omnibus spending legislation FY2005 included reduced US contributions to 44 international organizations to an amount of $1.182 billion. US President George Bush had requested $650 million for UN peacekeeping assessments within the overall contributions, but the bill only provides $490 million. (United Nations Association – USA)President of War Crimes Tribunal Says Funding Problems Serious (November 16, 2004)
Nearly $70 million in arrears from UN member state dues have had a “devastating effect” on the work of the former Yugoslav war crimes tribunal. Criticisms from Japan over excessive tribunal spending and lack of cooperation, mainly on the part of Serbia and Montenegro, have hindered the tribunal. Though a Bosnia-Herzegovina court may take on some cases and Croatia is “making progress,” the chief judge warns that funding issues could cause the tribunal to miss the 2004 investigations deadline and 2010 final deadline. (Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty)Annan Asks UN Budget Committee to Fund New Security Plan (November 2, 2004)
Kofi Annan unveiled a $97 million plan for unified security, which he considers “one of the most important proposals” during his tenure as Secretary General. The plan calls for a new Directorate of Security who will combine three currently separate staff security departments and report directly to the Secretary General. Estimated costs include $28 million for New York headquarters security renovations and $35 million for UN field offices worldwide. (UN News)UN Auditors Recover $26 Million in Savings Over the Past Year (October 27, 2004)
In an annual report to the General Assembly, Under Secretary General for Internal Oversight Services Dileep Nair says the Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) should have more independence in order to monitor UN finances and staff more efficiently. The OIOS, which looks for fraud and poor financing or planning at the UN, saved over $26 million through its oversight in 2004. (UN News)Senate Committee Approves Bill Providing UN Assessed Contributions, Cuts Peacekeeping Funds (September 17, 2004)
The US Senate Appropriations Committee approved a bill providing less money than President George W. Bush wanted for UN peacekeeping and payments to international organizations. The bill also removes the 25% cap on US peacekeeping funds, encourages privatization of peacekeeping forces, and includes a loan for renovating the UN headquarters. In light of rising peacekeeping costs, the bill advocates for the UN to “do more with less funding.” (United Nations Association USA)Iraq Avoids UN Dues by Crying Poverty (August 5, 2004)
Iraq’s Interim Government declared that “it is too poor” to pay its assessed contributions of $14.6 million to the UN Regular Budget, citing the impact of decades of war and the effects of international sanctions. One wonders why the Coalition Provisional Authority running Iraq did not allocate the necessary funds. (Inter Press Service)Annan Gets Boost to Fight for 'Voiceless' (March 9, 2004)
Canada is contributing $25 million to UN special programs for 2004. This contribution is in addition to the $53 million assessed contribution to the UN regular budget and an expected $103 million to UN peacekeeping operations. (Globe and Mail)UN Changes Get Blocked by Rifts (February 17, 2004)
UN reforms implemented since 1997 succeeded in streamlining and improving efficiency of UN operations. Despite the improvements, the UN continually suffers from chronic under-funding to core programs including Human Rights due to member states’ payment arrears and cuts to voluntary contributions. (Wall Street Journal)White House Seeks to Loan UN Funds for Renovations (February 4, 2004)
The US proposes loaning $1.2 billion to fund the UN Capital Master Plan for renovation of the New York Headquarters. Terms of the loan include a 30-year payback period at an interest rate of 5.54 percent, resulting in the loan totaling almost $2.5 billion. (Washington Times)Foreign Aid Bill to Fund Controversial UN Agencies (January 27, 2004)
The US is pledging $321 million in funding for UN agencies, including UNESCO and UNFPA. The US withdrew UNESCO’s funding under the Reagan Administration citing “anti-US politicization,” while anti-abortion groups lobbied the Bush II administration to cancel funding for UNFPA. Critics see the White House using UN agencies to promote “pro-western” ideals around the world. (OneWorld US)Squeezed Japan Threatens Cuts to UN Agencies (January 7, 2004)
Inter Press Service argues that Japan, the second highest contributor to the UN's regular budget, "is both angry and frustrated" at their inability to gain prominent posts within the UN system. Japan continues to lobby for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.2003
Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995 | 1994UN Warns of Funds Shortfall for Tribunals (November 21, 2003)
According to Under Secretary General for Management Catherine Bertini, the international criminal tribunals face dire financial straits. Bertini questions why so many member states have not made their payments. (New York Times)Peacekeeping Assessments More Than $1,100 Million in Arrears, UN Official Says (November 20, 2003)
Under Secretary General for Management Catherine Bertini gives an update on UN Member States payments. At the end of October 2003, 105 Member States had made no payments towards their 2003 war crimes tribunal assessments (UN News Service)UN Office in DC Targeted (October 30, 2003)
The US wants to close down the UN Information Center (UNIC) in Washington, based on “cost-cutting” goals. Some UN officials believe that the motive is political rather than economic. (Washington Times)Bush Close to Backing $1 Billion Loan to UN (August 11, 2003)
The interest-free loan, which could still be blocked by the US Congress, would allow the UN to renovate its crumbling headquarters facilities in New York. (UN Wire)Women Denied Help (July 17, 2003)
The US Congress refused to fund the UN Population Fund, damaging the health of thousands of impoverished women and children. Conservatives built support for the cut by tying the organization to China's coercive abortion program when, in fact, the UNPF opposes that policy. (New York Times)Poor Nations First to Pay Up UN Dues for 2003 (January 2, 2003)
Four ‘least developed nations’ were among 10 countries to pay their 2003 contributions to the UN in full on New Year’s Day. Developed nations will need to mirror this commitment from poorer countries to effectively combat the UN financial crisis which has caused cutbacks in many areas. (Inter Press Service)2002
Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995 | 1994Ted Turner Plans to Spend $500M on UN (December 11, 2002)
After watching his fortune dwindle from $8 billion to a mere $1.6 billion, Ted Turner announced that he would pay the remaining $500 million he pledged to the United Nations over the next 10 years, rather than the 5 years he originally planned. (Associated Press)UN Receives $46 Million From Washington Towards US Dues Payment (October 9, 2002)
As part of the Helms-Biden legislation, the US paid $46 million of what it owes to the UN. Although the payment represents significant progress, the US maintains a substantial debt. (UN News)Congress Adopts State Authorization Conference Report; Provides Final Arrears Payment Under Helms-Biden (September 30, 2002)
The US may finally pay its arrears to the UN; the House and Senate approved legislation that allows payment to UN organizations as each complies with certain requirements. It originally dictated that all organizations make reforms before any receive payment. (United Nations Association)For the UN, Talk is Not Cheap (August 28, 2002)
The cost of the Johannesburg Summit is provoking a large debate on the raison d’etre of UN Conferences. The US, critical of these “gab-fests for their cost and their lack of achievements,” makes an unconvincing case for abandoning UN conferences, and instead, holding Special Sessions of the General Assembly in New York “as a way of avoiding expensive junkets.” (Inter Press Service)Status of US Financial Obligations to The United Nations (June 2002)
In this report, UNA-USA describes the current US financial situation vis a vis the UN, providing several reasons to highlight the importance for the US to pay their arrears.US Initiative Falls Short in More Ways Than One (June 23, 2002)
According to the UN, the US gives the least among industrialized nations in development assistance (when measured as a percentage of gross national product). Interestingly, the US still manages to spend $200 billion on F-35 warplanes.(Milwaukee Journal Sentinel )US Congress Considers Big Increase in Global AIDS Funding (June 4, 2002)
As the US Senate prepares to vote on the funding allocated to the UN Global Fund to fight the HIV/AIDS epidemic, activist groups from all over the world are lobbying for a larger amount. (One World)U.S. Aid Well Spent in Africa (May 27, 2002)
Kofi Annan calls for developed countries to offer $2 billion to the UN Global Aids Fund to combat the diseases ravaging Africa. “Even Americans fed up with failed foreign aid programs ought to be able to understand -- with their hearts and their minds -- the urgent need for this effort.” (Chicago Tribune)New Report Reveals Drop in Aid to Developing Countries (May 17, 2002)
An OECD report shows that only 5 of the 29 member countries meet the expected target of 0.7% of their gross national income to development assistance. “Bilateral aid by OECD countries fell from 53.7 billion dollars in 2000 to 51.4 billion dollars last year.” (Inter Press Service)Following the Money (April 24, 2002)
In its presentation of the fiscal year 2003 budget to the US Congress, the Bush Administration pledged $618 million to the UN regular budget and its affiliate agencies. The question remains: when will they pay? (Stimson Center)UN Agency on Population Blames US for Cutbacks (April 5, 2002)
The UN Population Fund has been forced to cut programs and staff numbers as a result of a US decision to withhold $34 million in funding. Amy Coen, president of Population Action International, calls the move “politically motivated,” endangering the progress made in family planning initiatives in the developing world. (New York Times)UN Population Fund Seeks Help of Religious Groups (April 4, 2002)
The UN Population Fund is facing a financial crisis, due to the “religious debate” on abortion. President Bush decided to suspend the US contribution of $34 million to the Fund, accusing the organization of promoting abortion. (Agence France Presse)EU Statement on Improving the Financial Situation of the UN (March 15, 2002)
In a statement to the UN, the EU representative makes recommendations on how to improve the financial situation of the organization, while criticizing the cross-borrowing and the countries that fail to pay their arrears. (EU Website)UN Urges Washington to Reconsider Aid (March 12, 2002)
The Bush administration withheld $34 million in contributions to the UN population fund (UNFPA) on the grounds that their programs promote abortion. UNFPA denies this claim and emphasizes the importance of the money to reduce maternal deaths, infancy mortality rates and unwanted pregnancies. (New York Times)2001
Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995 | 1994Has UN Received a New Lease of Life? (December 13, 2001)
The UN is suddenly back in business following the US payment of UN dues totaling $582 million. Member states must now honor their commitment to make the UN work. (Canberra Times)UN Likely to be in the Black Again as US Readies to Pay Up (October 13, 2001)
After an optimistic briefing by Joseph Connor, the UN Undersecretary-General of Administration and Management, some countries remain skeptic on the financial situation of the UN. They are still waiting on the US, the largest debtor, to pay up. (Straits Times )US to Make Second Dues Payment to UN (October 6, 2001)
President Bush signed a Senate bill authorizing the payment of US back dues, citing his desire for the money to facilitate a "close bond" between the US and the UN. (Associated Press)House Approves UN Payment (September 25, 2001)
As a result of the terrorist attack on the US and in order for the US president to have full flexibility in the conduct of Foreign Policy, Republican House leader Tom DeLay dropped his opposition to a payment of US back dues to the United Nations. (Washington Post)Helms Plans to Retire From Senate in 2003 (August 22, 2001)
"Senator No"'s departure may bode well for the UN, as he has been one of the staunchest anti-UN Republicans. Despite promises by the US to pay its UN dues after winning payment reduction under a Helms campaign, the US now owes the UN the highest debt ever. (New York Times)UN Funds In Crossfire Over Court: Exemption Sought For US Troops (August 16, 2001)
The US House of Representatives is holding UN arrears hostage once again, unless the bill releasing overdue payments is accompanied by a measure to exempt US servicemen from the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court. (The Washington Post)US Strikes Back By Freezing UN Payments (May 11, 2001)
The US Congress withholds the final arrears payment of $244 million to the UN due next year, making release of the sum conditional to the re-election of the US to the Human Rights Commission in May 2002. (Independent South Africa)Iraq Asks UN to Be Allowed to Pay "Dues" From Oil-For-Food Revenue (May 11, 2001)
Iraqi radio reports on a letter sent by Iraq to the UN. The Security Council Resolution 1320 allows the withdrawal of money from Iraq's oil-for-food account to pay the UN membership dues, but it has not been implemented. (BBC)Angry US Lawmakers Want to Withhold UN Arrears (May 6, 2001)
Last week the United States lost its seat at the United Nations Human Rights Commission, where it had held memberhip since the human rights panel was created in 1947. For some Congress members, this blow is a welcome excuse to again discuss the cancellation of UN dues. (Times of India)Robinson Persuaded to Stay at UN for an Extra Year (April 3, 2001)
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Mary Robinson has agreed to extend her post after receiving support from human rights groups and others. A month earlier, Robinson announced her resignation complaining about the lack of money for the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and other “constraints” that prevented her from doing her job properly. (Independent)Robinson to Step Down as UN Human Rights Chief (March 20, 2001)
Mary Robinson, a former president of Ireland and lawyer who took up the top UN human rights job in 1997, surprised her employees in announcing her resignation. Robinson wishes to continue to work for human rights, but was frustrated by the lack of resources for her department. (Toronto Star)Pay the United Nations (March 19, 2001)
In this Washington Post editorial, US Congress is urged to pay $582 million in dues to the UN. The Congress is also criticized for worsening the financial situation of the UN by constantly delaying its payments.US Dues Deal Seen Smoothing Powell Visit to UN (February 14, 2001)
The Bush administration’s decision to pay a part of the US arrears to the UN - a step to restore credibility or to gain more influence over UN policy? (Reuters)The Check’s in the Mail (February 12, 2001)
The US Senate has finally agreed to release more than a half-billion dollars to the UN. However the complete payment of US arrears to the UN (which after this payment will still be over US$700 million) is still locked into Congress' "conditions" on UN policy.(Washington Times)Satisfied With UN Reforms, Helms Relents on Back Dues (January 9, 2001)
Helms applauds Holbrooke’s “browbeating” of the UN 5th Committee to lower US dues, by graciously allowing a partial payment of $500m of arrears – just $1 billion to go. (New York Times)2000
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International Scrooge (August 21, 2000)
In the 2001 budget, the US will spend about $310 billion on the military, about $10 billion on development aid, and virtually nothing on the UN. This editorial from the Singapore Straits Times argues that with this international misanthropy the US is only hurting itself.After Long Fight, UN Agrees to Cut Dues Paid by US (December 23, 2000)
The UN has agreed to reduce the US share of the UN regular budget from 25 to 22 percent and of the peacekeeping budget from 30 to 27 percent. (New York Times)Informal Deal Reached on Cutting US Dues to UN (December 22, 2000)
CNN founder Ted Turner offers $34 million to the US State Department to make up for the shortfall between what the US owes the UN and what Congress is willing to authorize for 2001. (Reuters)Santa Pays an Early UN Call After All...(December 19, 2000)
US diplomats at the United Nations are working to complete by Thursday a deal under which the United States would pay the world body $572 million in arrears in exchange for a reduction in future dues.(Earth Times)US Angles for a Smaller Slice in UN Budget (December 19, 2000)
Mexico proposed a new scale of assessment that might finally lead to an agreement. However it is a not clear whether that proposal would reduce the US contribution for peacekeeping as it demands. (Washington Times)A High-Ranking Democrat Lobbies for a Dues Break From UN (December 13, 2000)
As the budget dispute goes on, Senator Joseph R. Biden explains that the US may be willing compromise on a reduction of its share of the UN peacekeeping budget if the UN provides the requested 3% cut in the US share of the world body's administrative budget. (New York Times)On UN Dues, No U.S. Cover From Europe (December 8, 2000)
“We will not pay more,” said French Ambassador Jean-David Levitte speaking on behalf of the EU. The US wants to pay less but no one agrees to pay more. Discussions on the new scale of assessment are stuck. (New York Times)Trump Approached for UN Funding (December 8, 2000)
The Swedish Ambassador to the UN has written a letter to New York real estate mogul Donald Trump proposing that Trump help finance the renovation of UN Headquarters in New York. (New York Times)Statement by US Ambassador Richard C. Holbrooke to 5th Committee(November 27, 2000)
According to Holbrooke in his address to the Fifth Committee, the solution to the UN arrears “is already well under way”, however US payments still are conditional on UN “reform”.(US Mission to the UN Press Release)It's Time for Europe to Lead the UN (November 11, 2000)
A former deputy US representative to the UN suggests that the best way to stem the “increasingly destructive” US influence on the UN is for US financial obligations, and correspondingly US dominance, to be decreased. The EU could then step in to lead the way on wide-ranging UN reform. (International Herald Tribune)Japan to Request Reduction in UN Budget Contribution (November 26, 2000)
As the date to decide the scale of assessment for the next three years is coming closer, various states are requesting a reduction in their UN budget contribution. Japan, the second largest donor to the United Nations, plans to seek for the first time to reduce its contributions. (Daily Yomiuri)
UN Wants its Members to Pay Up (October 31, 2000)
The US share of the UN's regular budget for 1999 was $1,11 per US citizen. Tiny San Marino, by comparison, pays $4,26 per citizen to the UN. (Africa News)UN Says Its Financial Crisis Is Worsening (October 24, 2000)
The UN's department of information states that the magnitude of the UN financial crisis is "increasingly serious." Of the 2.7 billion dollars owed to the UN, the US stands for more than half. (Agence France Presse)Dues Collection Almost A Year Behind, Official Says( October 18, 2000)
As Joseph Connor, Under Secretary General for Management presented yesterday the critical UN finance position, discussions went on at the Fifth Committee in a tense atmosphere.( UN Independent Wire)Holbrooke’s Address to UN Budgetary Committee on Peacekeeping (October 3, 2000)
Holbrooke asked the Fifth Committee to re-evaluate the assessment scale for the financing of peacekeeping missions. This is the full transcript of his speech. (US Mission to the UN)Europeans Reject US Bid to Lower UN Dues (October 2, 2000)
US Ambassador Holbrooke encountered stiff resistance in the UN’s Budgetary Committee with his proposal to cut the US’s share of the budget. The European Union and Japan both already pay more than they should be assessed and they are up in arms. (New York Times)US Ambassador Holbrooke’s Address to UN Budgetary Committee (October 2, 2000)
Not suprisingly, Holbrooke asked the Fifth Committee of the General Assembly to lower the US’s contributions. This is the full text of the speech he gave. (US Mission to the UN Press Release)French Ambassador Levitte's Statement to UN Budgetary Committee (October 2, 2000)
Levitte, speaking on behalf of many European countries, called attention to the fact that the EU – with a share of 29% of world GNP – pays more than 36% of UN budget assessments. He called for a reduction of this share, implicitly rebuking the US’s demands for a cutback of its own dues. (French Mission to the UN)Fifth Committee to Commence Consideration of Scale of Assessments (September 29, 2000)
This UN Press Release details the issues that the Fifth Committee – Administrative and Budgetary – will address during this General Assembly, chief among them being the reform of the UN’s budget. A good introduction to the ongoing discussions in the Committee.UN Dismisses Pat Buchanan's Call for US to Kick them out (September 20, 2000)
The UN ignored Patrick Buchanan’s promise to ‘kick them out’ once elected, calling it an “unimportant comment by a minor candidate”. Buchanan, a Catholic conservative and presidential candidate, has a history of attacking the United Nations. (Associated Press)Buchanan Calls for UN to Move its Headquarters out of US (September 19, 2000)
Reform Party presidential candidate Patrick Buchanan calls for the United Nations to be thrown out of the US. If elected, he would “send up 10,000 Marines to help” the UN pack. (Associated Press)Why the US Does Not Owe Dues to the UN (September 18, 2000)
The United States Representative Roscoe Bartlett (Maryland) says that the US does not owe anything to the UN for peacekeeping, but that the UN does, in fact, owe the US another $17 billion. No further comment necessary. (US House of Representatives)US Warns UN on Financing (September 13, 2000)
With this year’s General Assembly kicking off, the debate has already begun about the UN’s scale of assessments and the US finds itself pitted against its closest allies – the European Union. (Earth Times News Service)Giuliani Asks US to Assume Security Costs (September 8, 2000)
New York Mayor Giuliani calls on the federal government to take over the costs incurred for extra security during the Millennium Summit. And there is also the matter of diplomats not paying their parking tickets… (New York Times)A UN Reform Group Favors Gore Over Bush (August 20, 2000)
With their respective campaigns in full swing, a questionnaire reveals the foreign policy preferences of Al Gore and George W. Bush. When it comes to the UN, the former seems the more benevolent of the two. (New York Times)UN Eases Burden of Moldova's Outstanding Membership Debt (August 18, 2000)
The UN has restored Moldova’s voting rights in the GA after the country’s arrears have been shifted so that it does not fall under Article 19. (Basapress News Agency)Brazil Does Not Want To Spend More on UN (August 16, 2000)
The US wants other countries to increase their UN contributions so that its own assessments can be lowered. On her trip to Brazil, however, Secretrary of State Albright encountered stiff resistance to her proposal. (Gazeta Mercantil)Decrepit UN Headquarters To Be Site of Largest World Summit (August 10, 2000)
When global leaders converge on New York for the Millenium Summit, they will find the United Nations in a terrible state of disrepair. (Deutsche Presse-Agentur)Rising US Debt to UN Spurs Fight Over Funds (August 8, 2000)
Once again, the subject of US payment of dues to the UN is a matter of controversy between the US Administration and Congress. This time it is about the peacekeeping budget which includes the UN missions in Southern Lebanon and on the Ethiopia-Eritrea border, both of which the US supported in the Security Council. (Washington Post)UN Absent From US Presidential Debate (July 29, 2000)
Although both Bush and Gore allege that when they became president, dues to the UN would be paid, the topic of the UN is noticeably missing from candidate debate. William Leurs, President of UNA-USA, notes that politicians often “undervalue” the “degree that the American public wants to bare the burden of peacekeeping”. (Earth Times)UN To Announce Major Renovations (July 22, 2000)
The UN hopes to get a $1 billion dollar face-lift over the course of the next six years. The US will be expected to foot a large portion of the bill. The proposal has not been accepted yet and it is unlikely that the US will pay the cosmetic bills of the UN when it doesn’t even pay its regular bills. (The Washington Post)EU Calls on 20 Newly Rich Countries to Increase Contributions to UN (July 14, 2000)
French Ambassador Jean-David Levitte, representing the EU, said "the essential criteria is what you are able to pay." The EU has identified Signapore, Israel, Argentina, Slovenia, and other countries as able to pay more since their economies have taken off. (Agence France Presse)US Pays UN $135m, But is Still Biggest Debtor (July 13, 2000)
The US makes a minimal contribution of 135 million dollars. Wow, only about 1.5 billion to go! (Earth Times)Schroeder Criticizes US Proposals to Cut Funds for UN (July 3, 2000)
After meeting with the UN Secretary General, German Chancellor Schröder firmly stated that "no state had the right to unilaterally reduce its material support for the UN." (Deutsche Presse-Agentur)Think Tank Launches Fund-Raising Campaign (June 19, 2000)
The conservative Heritage Foundation, known for their criticism of UN policy, is raising $125, 000 in order to publicize the dangers of President Clinton's executive orders which “implement his own internationalist agenda.” The Foundation remains troubled that the UN will undermine US domestic jurisdiction.(UN Wire)Deadbeat Nation Behind in the Rent Guinea-Bissau's UN Envoy Has No Electricity, Phone Line (June 6, 2000)
Joao Soares Da Gama, Guinea-Bissau's charge d'affaires, found himself "working by a window for light and relying on his cellphone," as utilities have been cut off due to the member state's inability to pay the rent. Guinea-Bissau's ambassador has returned home to find funds to pay back their arrears to the UN. The tiny country is 18 months in arrears and also owes an additional US$100,000 in rent.(National Post)Countries Agree To Increase Peacekeeping Funds (May 17, 2000)
US Amb. Richard Holbrooke criticizes the current system of paying UN peacekeeping missions, claiming the system puts the UN in "a potentially fatal financial straight jacket." Possible debatable adjustments to this system might include changing assessments as member states' economic conditions evolve.UN Talks to Review US Share of Costs (May 16, 2000)
Under a virtual threat from the US, UN diplomats have agreed to discuss the reduction of the US contribution to peacekeeping costs. If altered, this would be the first change in the peacekeeping budget in 27 years. (Washington Times)UN'S Envoys to Take On Sen. Helms Face-to-Face (March 30, 2000)
15 Ambassadors of the UN Security Council accepted an invitation to Washington from Senator Helms. In their one-day visit they will tour the Senate and speak at a hearing, meet with Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and Undersecretary of State Thomas Pickering as well as meet national security advisers. (Reuters)US Warns UN on Dues and Peacekeeping (March 23, 2000)
The US may sympathize with the rest of the world's problems, but with this blunt statement the UN seems to be left with two options, either take even less American peacekeeping money or receive none at all. (New York Times)US Amb. Richard Holbrooke on Revised US Assessments (March 23, 2000)
In his statement to the Fifth Committe of the General Assembly, Amb. Richard Holbrooke urges a lower scale of assessments for the United States and warns that if the US share is not lowered, the financing of the UN and of peacekeeping could collapse.US Hypocrisy Clouding 'New World Order' (March 2000)
Hodding Carter argues in this op-ed piece from The World Paper that the US failure to pay its dues to the UN is only one of a series of US measures that has had the effect of undermining multilateral institutions.US Begins Lonely Fight to Cut Back its UN Costs (March 12, 2000)
Convincing the rest of the UN membership to pay a greater share of the UN budget will be a difficult task for the US to accomplish. Already, Japan's representative has stated that he senses discontent in the Japanese legislature because his country pays 20% of the budget - more than Britain, France, Russia and China put together - and is not a permanent member of the Security Council. (New York Times)OAU Faces Financial Problems (March 8, 2000)
Evidently the UN is not the only inter-governmental organization affected by financial worries. With 40 of its 53 members not having paid their dues, the very survival of the Organization of African Unity is at stake. (The Post of Zambia)Peacekeeping Costs Threaten Congressional Support (March 2, 2000)
A key Republican Congressman would rather deny funding to UN missions in Kosovo, Sierra Leone, the DRC and East Timor because they "offer little hope for success." (Washington Times)Starving the Hand you Bite (March 2000)
Frustrated and angry that its lobbying for a permanent seat on the Security Council has not yielded results despite its substantial contribution to the UN budget, Japan is in no mood to permit a reduction of the US share of the budget. (The World Paper)Web Charity Acquired By E-Commerce Company (February 9, 2000)
Joining an increasing number of innovative funding initiatives for UN programs, two web sites join hands to harness the potential of the Internet to raise money for the world's hungry. (UN Newservice)UN Broke in Kosovo - Not Even Nordic Governments Care (February 7, 2000)
Dr. Jan Oberg, (Director, Transnational Foundation for Peace and Future Research) expresses grave concern over the lack of funding for the United Nations Mission in Kosovo, while drawing attention to the fact that no one spoke of a financial crisis during the NATO bombardment, despite the heavy cost of that campaign - a reflection of a world, ever ready to fund destruction, but unwilling to aid reconstruction.Countries Lose Vote in General Assembly Over UN Debt (February 1, 2000)
Forty-five UN member states lose their voting rights in the General Assembly after failing to pay their dues on time. (Reuters)Deadline Nears for Member States to Pay Dues to UN Budget (January 28, 2000)
So far 36, out of a total of 188, UN Member States have paid their 2000 dues. (UN Newservice)Firm Words From Albright About Helms and the UN (January 25, 2000)
Following critisicms of the United Nations by Senator Jesse Helms, Secretary of State Madeline Albright felt compelled to remind the Security Council of who is in charge of foreign policy, "only the president of the United States can speak for the American people." (New York Times)US, UN Continue Tug-of-war Over Debts (January 24, 2000)
A Toronto Globe and Mail article on the tensions and ironies surrounding UN-basher Jesse Helms' visit to the UN.US Delegate Sees UN Dues Cut as Unlikely (January 22, 2000)
In an effort to smooth over tensions created by Helm's speech to the UN, US Ambassador to the UN, Richard Holbrooke tried to emphasize that this visit in itself signalled a vast improvement in the relationship between the US and the UN. (New York Times)Helms's Bombast at the UN (January 22, 2000)
A Boston Globe editorial on Senator Helms' address to the UN points out that, in contrast to Helms' claim that he speaks for the the American people, "overwhelming majorities of Americans support the UN; Helms speaks only for himself and a parochial faction of conservatives."Helms Says UN Must Earn Respect From Americans (January 21, 2000)
An article from the New York Times describing Jesse Helms speech to the Security Council as "a message that has made him the symbol of right-wing hostility toward the United Nations".In the Words of Helms: 'A Lack of Gratitude' (January 21, 2000)
Speech given by Senator Helms to the UN Security Council on January 20th candidly addressing the importance of protecting US sovereignty in the framework of the United Nations System. (New York Times).Helms' Security Council Appearance Indicates Positive US-UN Relationship (January 20, 2000)
Article by UNA-USA discusses the relevance of Helms appearance in the Security Council in showing that Congress recognizes the value of an active US Role in the UN.Comments by Security Council Members to Senator Helms' Speech (January 20, 2000)
A collection of responses from ambassadors to Senator Helms speech to the Security Council.For Helms and UN, A Cautious Embrace (January 19, 2000)
Senator Jesse Helms will address the UN Security Council with a message reiterating US conditions for payment of past dues. (New York Times)Iraq Wants to Pay Arrears Due to UN, OPEC (January 12, 2000)
"Iraq on Wednesday asked the UN Security Council to set aside $34 million from its oil-for-food revenues to pay UN and OPEC fees." (Associated Press)UN Dues: Denmark Laments Loss In Annual Race To Pay First (January 5/6, 2000)
Finland is the first nation to pay its UN dues in full in the year 2000. (UN Wire)1999
Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995 | 1994Dues Payment by U.S. Saves Its UN Vote (December 22, 1999)
US pays 51$ million in the final hour to save its seat in the General Assembly. (New York Times)Helms Accepts Invite To Visit UN (December 17, 1999)
The Associated Press reports on Jesse Helms' planned visit in January to the UN where he will address the UN Security Council, hold meetings and hearings with US officials in New York on the reform effort at the United Nations.US: Arrears Conditions Will Pose Significant Challenges (December 17, 1999)
The UN Wire reports on US plans for payment of regular dues and $100 million in arrears to avoid losing its vote in the General Assembly.US Plan for Paying UN Arrears (December 3, 1999)
Fact sheet released by the Bureau of International Organization Affairs, US Department of State.UN Population Fund Welcomes Restoration of US Funding in 2000 (November 23, 1999)
After having cut off all funding to the UNFPA for the fiscal year 1999, the US resumes funding in the next fiscal year with a $25 million contribution. The sudden volte-face highlights the insecurity of UN initiatives funded solely by voluntary contributions.Many at UN Not Satisfied by US Dues Deal (November 19, 1999)
An article from the Los Angeles Times discussing the skepticism of many UN Diplomats over the US deal to pay past dues. Includes statements by delegates from Canada, Africa, Denmark, and the European Union.US Pays UN Dues, Now for Reform (November 19, 1999)
An opinion piece from the Christian Science Monitor about the interdependent relationship between the US and the UN. "The US needs a strong UN to pursue many of its important interests around the world. The UN needs strong US support to remain financially viable and effective."How the White House Sold Out Women (November 19, 1999)
A Washington Post article about the White House-approved Smith amendment in exchange for House approval for payment of $926 million in UN arrears. The amendment would prohibit private NGO's in foreign countries from using their own funds to perform abortions.Holbrooke Says US on Verge of a New Relationship With UN (November 18, 1999)
A report by the Associated Press on Holbrooke's efforts to gain support from UN ambassadors for the US' conditions for payment of $926 million in back dues in its campaign to streamline the UN.NetAid Fundraiser for UNDP Brings in Meager $1 Million (November 17, 1999)
UNDP's corporate partnership with Cisco Systems, creating a series of concerts and web productions, was a much-ballyhooed plan to overcome UN financial woes and raise millions to "eradicate poverty." It has produced far less than expected, far below the $120 million raised by LiveAid in the 1980s, and promoters are talking about "compassion fatigue." (Washington Post)Holbrooke's Tough Sell on UN Debt (November 17, 1999)
A Washington Post article about Holbrooke's campaign to persuade various member nations to increase their portion of UN finances, to accept a lower US share and to maintain the current UN budget for the next two years.A Costly Deal on UN Dues (November 17, 1999)
An editorial from New York Times about the decision for US payment of UN dues. "To get the UN money approved, the White House compromised on an important issue of principle, and may have encouraged radical anti-abortion crusaders to expand their assault on abortion rights."Struggle to Pay Arrears Continues (November 16,1999)
UNAUSA reports on US negotiations with UN Members over conditions for payment of arrears and on public support for the UN throughout the arrears deal.Deal Is Reached on Dues Owed UN, Breaking Impasse (November 15, 1999)
"White House and Republican negotiators in the House reached a tentative agreement in a dispute over abortion rights that would pave the way for the US to pay nearly $1 billion it owes the UN." (New York Times)A UN Compromise? (November 11, 1999) / Compromise for the UN (November 17, 1999)
Editorials from Washington Post dealing with the negotiation process and the decision by the Clinton Administration and House leaders for US payment of UN dues.Abortion Discord Holds Up UN Dues and US Budget (November 11, 1999)
An article from New York Times about the dispute over budget on abortion between Congress and the White House considering UN dues. "The abortion fight is threatening to undermine the wholly unrelated issue of United States global leadership."White House and GOP Try to Break Deadlock on UN Dues (November 10, 1999)
The Washington Post reports on negotiations between White House officials and House GOP leaders on a spending package which would affect payment of UN dues.White House vs. United Nations (November 8, 1999)
"There's a great deal of bipartisan support for paying these arrears and making that funding conditional to UN reform.... The Clinton administration repeatedly has vetoed legislation to pay UN arrears and been entirely unwilling to compromise." (Washington Times / Editorial)Time to Pay Our Dues (November 8, 1999)
An editorial from Washington Times about the issue of US dues to the UN. "The US ambassador to the UN is committed to Helms's proposals, which include reducing the overall US share in the UN budget."House Okays Package Including Wye Aid (November 7, 1999)
"The amount allocated for the Wye agreement equals the amount the US owes in back dues to the UN. The US could lose its seat in the General Assembly unless it pays at least $350 million of the arrears by the end of the year." (Jerusalem Post)UN Arrears Debate Heats Up PAI urges compromise, way out of "gridlock"(November 4, 1999)
Population Action International offers a "global" perspective on the US's conundrum over paying UN dues and reconciling its dowmestic dispute over abortion.(Legislative News and Views)A New Realism for a New Era: The US and the UN in the 21st Century (November 2,1999)
An address by Richard C. Holbrooke US Amassador to the UN in the National Press Club.Let the United States Do Its Work (October 30 ,1999)
An opinion piece published in the Canadian newspaper, Guelph Mercury (Ontario), argues that "a revitalized United Nations is essential to the interests of Canadians."Holbrooke Accuses House of Hurting US Role in the World (October 27, 1999)
In the wake of Clinton's veto of the second of two foreign spending bills because of unacceptable riders, Holbrooke blames House Republicans of rigging the legislation with a provision that would have guaranteed the loss of the US seat in the General Assembly by delaying allocations past a December 31 deadline. (New York Times)Failure to Pay Dues Transgresses Principles of International Law (October 26, 1999)
Address by President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Judge Stephen M. Schwebel, to the UN General Assembly. (ICJ Press Communiqué 99/46)United Nations Building: An International Symbol of Neglect (October 24, 1999)
A New York Times article discusses the deterioration of the UN's headquarters in New York as a reflection of the UN financial crisis.Holbrooke's Job at UN Begins on Capitol Hill (October 21, 1999)
The New York Times profiles Holbrooke's schedule in Washington DC as he lobbies to get the Congress to pay US arrears to the UN.Payment of US Debt to UN Is Top Priority for Holbrooke (October 17, 1999)
Washington Post reports on Holbrooke's high-level campaign to regain the US seat on the UN budget committee.US Told It Must Pay $550 Million or Risk Losing UN Vote (October 6, 1999)
Holbrooke lays out conditions for payment of US arrears to the UN.Press Congress on US Dues, Clinton is Told ( September 28, 1999)
New York Times piece emphasizes the importance of the President's and Republican leadership's role in putting increased pressure on Congress so that the US debt to UN is included in budget talks.US Lag on UN Dues Irks Other Nations (September 26, 1999)
An article from the Boston Globe highlights the fact that the US debt to the UN exceeds the amount of annual UN budget.Albright Says Debt Hinders US Ability to Shape UN (September 23, 1999)
Secretary of State Albright reiterates her call for payment of UN dues. (New York Times)Time to Pay Up at the UN (September 23, 1999)
President Clinton's words ring hollow. ( Baltimore Sun)The Deadbeat of the United Nations (September 22, 1999)
The Chicago Tribune says the US arrears have "gone way past humiliating and shameless. It is also ludicrous, needless and intolerable." It describes that even Sen. Jesse Helms has realized that the not paying is damaging US interests and calls on President Clinton to see that payment is made.Clinton on the US Arrears to the UN (September 21, 1999)
Excerpt from President Clinton's annual address to the 54th Session of the General Assembly.Pay UN Bills (September 1999)
An opinion piece published in the Philadelphia Inquirer describes the US's diminished foreign policy influence that results from non-payment of dues to the UN.The UN is a Great Bargain: Time for the US to Pay its Debt (September 1999)
An editorial from the San Jose Mercury emphasizes the importance of payment of US dues to the UN, explaining that the the work of the UN is immense in relation to its low cost."Catching Up in Congress (September 7, 1999)
An editorial from the Boston Globe discusses the harm caused by Congress's political deadlocks and offers the nonpayment of US arrears to the UN as an example resulting in "a shameful act of international arrogance".With an Envoy Finally in Place, It's Time to Pay Our UN Dues (September 2, 1999)
An editorial in the San Jose Mercury News discusses the damage caused to the US's international reputation by withholding dues to the UN. It also explains the attached anti-abortion rider and describes how the UN is being held "hostage to domestic political issues".Paying Our UN Debt (September 1, 1999)
In its editorial the St. Petersburg Times discusses the imperative of paying arrears to the UN now and calls on House Speaker Dennis Hastert to see that payment is finally.Retiring AID Head Vents Frustration (June 30, 1999)
Upon stepping down as head of the US Agency for International Development (USAID), J. Brian Atwood spoke out about the Republican controlled Congress' neglect of the Global South, worldwide income disparity and US arrears to the UN.Congressional Myopia on Foreign Aid (August 24, 1999)
A New York Times editorial emphasizes the importance of foreign aid for global security and calls on Congress to fully approve Clinton's "modest" foreign aid request. Makes reference to Clinton's August 16 speech that mentioned importance of paying US dues to the UN.Clinton a Weak Friend of UN (August 17, 1999)
"The US is quick to assert its global reach by waging wars half a world away to enforce principles for which it stands. But it is shamefully slow in meeting its commitments to the UN." (Los Angeles Times)President Clinton on the UN Financial Crisis (August 16, 1999)
In this excerpt from a speech made to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Clinton calls for "...paying our fair share of [UN] dues..."The Pressure Builds To Pay UN Debts (August 13, 1999)
The San Francisco Chronicle calls on the public to push the House and Senate to pay US dues to the UN.Our Dues Have Come Due (August 5, 1999)
An opinion piece from UNA-USA 's Washington Times that cautions about some of the problems in the conditions included in pending US legislation to authorize partial payment of UN arrears.As US Relations with UN Languish, Is Clinton or Congress to Blame? (August 5, 1999)
A New York Times article by Judith Miller that examines the deterioration in the US-UN relationship and some of the implications for UN Finances.UN Reform Act of 1999: A Dangerous Course for the US and the UN (August 2, 1999)
UN Reform Act of 1999: A Dangerous Course for the US and the UN (July 16, 1999)
A briefing paper published by the Campaign for UN Reform, a group based in Washington, DC that lobbies for an effective and accountable UN . The paper provides a detailed analysis of the recent US legislation on paying its UN dues and offers recommendations for improving the Senate bill.Poverty Agency Vying with Aid Offices for Cash (July 11, 1999)
A New York Times article that points out recent decreases in UNDP's funding and the competition that exists to secure development money.Effort to Pay US Dues Comes with Insulting Strings (June 30, 1999)
A brief article that criticizes the US handling of and attitude towards its overdue UN dues payment.Paying for the United Nations Senate Vote (June 25, 1999)
A Baltimore Sun article on the Senate's vote to make a payment of almost $1 billion to the UN.Senate Backs UN Payment, But More Hurdles Remain (June 23, 1999)
A New York Times article on the obstacles which still confront the bill passed by the US Senate to pay almost $1 billion in US arrears to the UN.Senate Bill S.886 (June 22, 1999)
Relevant text of the legislation passed by the US Senate. The bill contains many far-reaching conditions for the payment of US dues to the UN.Senate Votes to Cut US Contributions to UN (June 22, 1999)
Associated Press article on the senate agreement to release nearly $1 billion of US arrears to the UN with the condition that the percentage of US contributions to the UN budget be decreased from 25% to 20%.Pay Up Day At the UN? (June 18, 1999)
A Washington Post editorial about the impending vote in the US Congress on US dues to the UN. Critical of US policy towards the UN.US Forces UN to Reduce Haiti Human Rights Mission (June 16, 1999)
A Reuters article on the lack US funding for the UN program in Haiti at a time of increasing turmoil as elections approach.Drive Seeks to Get UN Funding Approved on Capitol Hill (June 13, 1999)
A Washington Post article which looks at the politics of recent efforts to pay the US's debt to the UN.Senate Panel Chief Says US Losing Reins on UN Budget (May 28, 1999)
Senator Grams lambastes Clinton administration for Richard Sklar's three-week absence from the UN's Fifth Committee.World Needs UN, and UN Needs the US to Pay Its Dues (May 9, 1999)
Former Senator Rudy Boschwitz (R Minnesota) argues that the UN provides important humanitarian work and acts as an indispensable forum for global problem-solving.Outgoing UN Development Chief Berates US (May 1, 1999)
James Gustave Speth criticizes the US for "tragic shortsightedness" in failing to support the world body.Deadbeats Before the World: The US Should Pay its UN Debts Before Jan. 1 (April 26, 1999)
An editorial in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette argues for congressional action on the UN financial crisis.Holbrooke's UN Nomination Is Reported Close to a Deal (April 20, 1999)
A report on an attempted deal between Senate leaders and the State Department in which Holbrooke's confirmation as US Delegate to the UN would be linked with support for the Helms-Biden bill.Bill Introduced to Restore Funding to UNFPA (March 1999)
Reporting on the introduction of a bill to resume US funding to UNFPA, UNA-USA reveals that critics of US funding are arguing that UNFPA participates in objectionable population control programs in China.Will the UN Crash? (March 26, 1999)
An article from (Foreign Report) which discusses how the UN's financial crisis has made the UN computer facilities technologically archaic.$150,000 Dog Defended as Security for United Nations (March 10, 1999)
Security considerations have forced the UN to hire a full-time sniffer dog, which earns more than an Under Secretary General. (Jefferson City News Tribune)Let's Pay Our UN Debt With the Budget Surplus (February 5, 1999)
A San Francisco Chronicle article urges payment of US dues to the UN and makes reference to the inequality of wealth distribution addressed in the 1999 UNDP Human Development Report.America at Risk from Weakening International Institutions (March 1999)
New UN Dues Legislation Unveiled in Congress (March 26, 1999)
The UN's Biggest Deadbeat (March 29, 1999)
Budgetary Committee Takes Hard Look at Past Expenses and Next Year's Cutbacks (March 17, 1999)
US Must Pay UN $250 Million to Avoid Losing Seat (March 18, 1999)
UN Warns US on Payments (March 23, 1999)
In Angola, UN Peacekeeping Sounds 'Retreat' (March 20, 1999)
Press Briefing by Under-Secretary General for Management, Joseph E. Connor (March 18, 1999)
Holbrooke on Hold (March 18, 1999)
UNDP Solicits Funds From Corporations (March 1999)
US: Foundation to Lobby for Payment of UN Dues (March 9, 1999)
Kofi Annan Blames US Politicians for Backlog of UN Payments (March 9, 1999)
UN Defends $150,000 Dog as Effective Security (March 9, 1999)
Annan Urges Congress to Pay UN Debt or US Could Lose Vote (February 24, 1999)
Let's Pay Our UN Debt with the Budget Surplus (February 5, 1999)
Germany Cuts UNDP Contribution by 25 Percent (February 3, 1999)
Dues Payment: 29 Countries Paid Up by Friday (February 1, 1999)
Bonn Criticizes US on Debt to UN (January 27, 1999)
UN Reform: US Senator Says US Mission Undermines Effort (January 19, 1999)
1998
Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995 | 1994Turner Begins Delivering on UN Pledge (December 7, 1998)
Arrears Defeat U.S. Bid for Key U.N. Committee (November 7, 1998)
US Bid for UN Committee Fails (November 6, 1998)
UN Supporters Make Impact on Congressional Elections (November 5, 1998)
Press Briefing by USG Joseph Connor (4 November, 1998)
It Would Be a Mistake to Elect the US to the UN ACABQ! (November 3, 1998)
Secretary-General Annan criticises US for not paying its debt to the UN (October 22, 1998)
Clinton Vetoes Measure to Pay $1 Billion in Late U.N. Dues (21 October, 1998)
Secretary-General Says US Arrears Situation Looks Grim (21 October, 1998)
Executive Director's Statement on the Withdrawal of US Funding from UNFPA (20 October, 1998)
UN Criticizes US Over Back Dues (16 October, 1998)
US Budget Plan Excludes Money for UN Debt (15 October, 1998)
Press Briefing on the UN Financial Situation by USG Connor (7 October, 1998)
Obstructionists, a Washington Post Editorial (October 5, 1998)
Give the UN its Dues (October 1, 1998)
UN Fraud Pursued Criminally (25 September 1998)
US is Deadbeat Pariah of International Diplomacy (25 September 1998)
The UN is Really Falling Apart (25 September 1998)
The World's Biggest Deadbeat (22 September 1998)
Darkest Hour at U.N. For Richest Deadbeat (21 September 1998)
UN Dues: An Assessment (September 1998)
UN. Budget for 2000-2001 to Reduce to $2.46 Billion (August 14, 1998)
Whether Using Casinos or Coffee Shops Can the UN be an Entrepreneur? (August 1998)
Who Speaks for the Poor and Dispossessed? (August 1998)
UNHCR: Financial Mishandling Denied by U.N. Refugee Group (4 August 1998)
UN Dues Payment Bill on Hold (20 July 1998)
Unitarian Universalist Action of Immediate Witness for Payment of the US Debt to the UN (July 1998)
US Dues Arrears in the United Nations and Possible Loss of Vote in the UNGA (July 1998)
Losing America's Vote at the United Nations (29 June 1998)
Unpaid Dues At the U.N. Could Cost U.S. Its Vote (28 June 1998)
Press Briefing by Under-Secretary-General Joseph Connor on GAO Report (24 June 1998)
GAO: U.S. May Lose U.N. Vote (24 June 1998)
Letter to President Clinton from UNA-USA Urging Veto of Bill (19 June 1998)
US GAO Report on Impact of US Arrears at the UN (June 18, 1998)
Helms Pulls Diplomatic Lever to Move Clinton on U.N. Bill (15 June 1998)
UN Gives Its First Big Grant From Ted Turner Gift (20 May 1998)
Senate Ties Abortion Curbs to Bill (5 May 1998)
Chicago Tribune Editorial: A Losing Play by the GOP ( 30 April 1998)
Boston Globe Editorial: .... And in the UN ( 30 April 1998)
Senate Acts to Pay UN Dues, But Clinton Veto is Expected (29 April 1998)
Abortion Politics Derails U.S. Multilateral Agenda (26 April 1998)
Annan Says US Debts Hurt UN Peacekeeping (24 April 1998)
"The United Nations Debt - Who Owes Whom?" a Cato Institute paper (April 23, 1998)
Christian Science Monitor story on Turner gift to the UN (22 April 1998)
Fiscal Reforms Limit Capabilities of UN Human Rights System ( 8 April 1998)
Congressman says Secretary General "should be horse whipped"
(31 March 1998)Will the US Lose its Vote at the UN? (March 30, 1998)
Mike McCurry: White House Comments on Article 19 (16 March 1998)
James Rubin: US May be in Trouble on Article 19 (12 March, 1998)
"US Republicans to Attach Abortion to IMF Funding" (11 March, 1998)
Press Briefing by USG Joseph Connor (10 March, 1998)
Kofi Annan: "The Unpaid Bill that's Crippling the UN" (9 March, 1998)
"What Do People Really Think of the UN?" (February 1998)
UN Ends January in Tough Spot Financially (January 31, 1998)
"Saving the Planet with Maurice Strong" (January 12, 1998)
1997
Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995 | 1994"On Foreign Affairs, U.S. Public Is Non-Traditional" (December 28, 1997)
"Should We Evict the UN?" by Patrick Buchanan (December 27, 1997)
Press Briefing by Under Secretary Joseph Connor (December 24, 1997)
General Assembly Passes Budget, Adopts Assessment Scale
(December 22, 1997)"U.S. Effort to Cut Its Dues Dies at an Angry U.N."(December 19, 1997)
Declaration by the European Union on UN Finance (December 19, 1997)
"Allies Criticise U.S Debt to U.N." (December 9, 1997)
"Media: UN Image Tarnished by Lopsided Coverage" (December 7, 1997)
"The Best World Club We Have" (November 22, 1997)
"Pruning the United Nations" (November 18, 1997)
"U.S. Isn't Legally Obligated to Pay the U.N" (November 17, 1997)
"Congress Fails to Act on Helms-Biden" (November 14, 1997)
"Coalition Decries Irresponsible Action by Congress to Not Pay U.N. Arrears" (November 14, 1997)
Congress Adjourns without acting on Arrears (November 13, 1997)
"Rep. Hamilton Rebuffs Entreaties to Back Off Fight Over U.N. Debt" (November 6, 1997)
Speech of Amb. Qin of China to the Fifth Committee (October 27, 1997)
Message of Secretary General Annan to the Worldwide Vigil (October 23, 1997)
Letter to US Amb. Richardson by Vigil Organizers (October 23, 1997)
Worldwide Vigil Protests UN Financial Crisis (October 23, 1997)
USA Today article on US threat of withdrawal from the UN (October 21, 1997)
Article by Robert H. Reid: "No Payments Without Reform" (October 21, 1997)
Wall Street Journal editorial on UN reform (October 21, 1997)
US Amb. Richardson threatens US withdrawal from UN
(October 21, 1997)Press Release: "Hundreds to Gather at UN Oct. 23 to Protest Financial Crisis" (October 20, 1997)
Press Briefing by Under Secretary Joseph Connor (October 3, 1997)
Press Release "Clinton's Empty Rhetoric" (September 22, 1997)
Clinton's Empty Rhetoric on US Arrears (September 22, 1997)
Turner Announces US$ 1 Billion Gift to the U.N. (September 19, 1997)
Presidential and Ministerial Statements on the UN Financial Crisis (September 1997)
Statements at the opening General Debate of the 52nd Session of the UN General Assembly.Call for a Second Worldwide Vigil on the UN Financial Crisis (August 1, 1997)
NGO Statement on Alternative Finance at ECOSOC (July 24, 1997)
Washington Post editorial on Annan's reforms (July 17, 1997)
NY Times editorial on Annan's reforms (July 17, 1997)
Annan Announces Major Reform Package (July 16, 1997)
NY Times article on a trade tax to fund the UN (July 6, 1997)
Helms-Biden Bill Imposes Harsh Payback Conditions (June 17, 1997)
Senator Grams favors conditional payments of UN arrears (May 16, 1997)
Washington Post article on UN budget cuts (April 22, 1997)
UN Report Predicts $100 Million Cost Saving (April 21, 1997)
Letter to the New York Times: CIA and UN budgets should be switched (March 21, 1997)
U.S. Ambassador Richardson tells Congress to pay debts (March 19, 1997)
Investor's Business Daily: Deadbeat America (March 18, 1997)
Annan Bows to Washington, Announces New Cuts (March 17, 1997)
Article by Jessica Mathews: Delinquency and Diplomay (March 10, 1997)
Article on "benchmarks" for UN reform in US Congress (March 8, 1997)
Article by Ian Williams on US pressure to downsize the UN (March 3, 1997)
The Clinton Budget and UN Arrears (February 23, 1997)
January Payments Surpass 1996, but Still a Shoddy Record (January 31, 1997)
1996
Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995 | 1994UN Ends 1996 in Shaky Financial Condition (December 31, 1996)
US Payment Falls Short of Promises on Regular Budget
(December 12, 1996)Statement by Under Secretary Joseph Connor to the Fifth Committee (December 12, 1996)
Press Briefing by Under Secretary Joseph Connor (December 12, 1996)
Iqbal Haji on Downsizing the UN (December 1996)
New York Times article by Clyde Haberman "Squeeze UN And the City Feels the Pain" (November 8, 1996)
Statement by Mary June Pettyfer to Vigil Event in Victoria, Canada (October 24, 1996)
Statement by Worldwide Vigil Organizers to Event in Ottawa (October 24, 1996)
Message of Secretary General Boutros Ghali to the Worldwide Vigil (October 23, 1996)
NGOs Hold Worldwide Vigil in 30 Cities (October 23, 1996)
Press Release Announcing the Worldwide Vigil (October 17, 1996)
Press Briefing by Under Secretary General Joseph Connor (October 10, 1996)
US Says It Will Pay $661 Million; Critics Sceptical, Say Huge Debt Remains (October 4, 1996)
Press Briefing by Under Secretary General Joseph Connor (September 17, 1996)
Congress Acts on UN Funding, Eases Helms Ammendment
(September 17,1996)Under Secretary Connor Tells NGOs of UN Financial Perils
(September 11, 1996)Statement by the World Federation of UN Associations (August 24, 1996)
Press Briefing by Under Secretary General Joseph Connor (August 19, 1996)
Call for a Worldwide Vigil on the UN Financial Crisis (August 7, 1996)
US Congress Passes UN 1996 Appropriations (July 26, 1996)
Press Briefing by Under Secretary General Joseph Connor (July 25, 1996)
US Warns of Further Cuts to UN and ODA (July 19, 1996)
US Makes Partial Payment Towards 1995 UN Budget (July 9, 1996)
Clinton Administration Delays Payments to the UN (July 2, 1996)
Press Briefing by Under Secretary General Joseph Connor (July 1, 1996)
Briefing Paper by the World Federalists of Canada (June 25, 1996)
US Payments Not Forthcoming to the UN (June 24, 1996)
Statement by the National Council of Churches (May 22, 1996)
Vice President Gore Addresses Meeting of UNA-USA (May 21, 1996)
"WHO Prescribes Socialist Medicine" a Wall St. Journal article (May 14, 1996)
Press Briefing by Under Secretary General Joseph Connor (April 30, 1996)
UN Appropriations Finally Pass in Congress (28 April, 1996)
New York Times "Op-Ed" by Secretary General Boutros Ghali (April 8, 1996)
Press Briefing by Under Secretary General Joseph Connor (April 2, 1996)
New York Times Editorial on US Arrears (April 1, 1996)
Statement on the UN Financial Crisis by the Nordic movements for the UN (March 1996)
Speech of US Representative Madeleine Albright (March 7, 1996)
to the Working Group on the Financial SituationSpeech of US Representative Madeleine Albright (March 4, 1996)
in Raleigh, North CarolinaSpeech of Secretary General Boutros-Ghali (February 6, 1996)
to the Working Group on the Financial Situation
Statement of Paolo Fulci, Permanent Representative of Italy, speaking on behalf of the European Union (February 6, 1996)
to the Working Group on the Financial SituationSpeech of Under Secretary General Connor (February 5, 1996)
to the Working Group on the Financial Situation
Letter to the New York Times: "US is a Defaulter" (January 29, 1996)
written by William vanden Heuvel, former Deputy Permanent Representative of the US to the UNSpeech of Under Secretary General Connor (January 24, 1996)
to the Working Group on the Financial Situation
Speech of Lorenzo Ferrarin, Deputy Permanent Representative of Italy, speaking on behalf of the European Union (January 24, 1996)
to the Working Group on the Financial Situation
A Paper by UNDP Administrator James Gustave Speth (January 17, 1996)
"Why the UN is Essential for Successful Development Cooperation and Vice Versa" a response to those calling for drastic cutbacks in the UN's mission for development
1995
Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995 | 1994Citizens' Charge on the UN (November, 20 1995)
Jessica Mathews, the writer of this Op-Ed piece from the Washington Post, was a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations in 1995 and has gone on become president of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.1994
Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995 | 1994Image & Reality: A 'Vast Sprawling Bureaucracy'? (1994)
Erskine Childers and Brian Urquhart address misinformation about UN staff and the size of its budget. While Western media often describe the UN as “a vast sprawling bureaucracy,” the UN employs fewer people than the District Health Services of Wales in Britain. Further disputing the misconception of the UN as “a gigantic paper factory,” Childers and Urquhart point out that “the New York Times consumes more paper in one single Sunday edition than the United Nations consumes in all its documents in a whole year.” (Renewing the United Nations System)
