UN faces budget cuts due to USAID DOGE reductions

The United Nations is facing a budget crisis after cuts to aid from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). This change is linked to adjustments made by former President Donald Trump's administration and is now affecting the UN's Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS). According to emails shared within the UN, the funding cuts have removed around $30 million from extra-budgetary resources. This has led to the loss of approximately 100 jobs at UNDSS. The department's presence will also be reduced in 35 to 45 countries. A representative warned that this is the worst financial situation the UN has faced since it was established. The under-secretary-general of UNDSS highlighted that the department focuses on risk management rather than being a traditional protection agency. UN Secretary-General António Guterres previously warned that cuts to U.S. funding could make the world less safe and less healthy. The Deputy Spokesman for the UN noted that UNDSS received about $20 million from USAID last year. However, he stated this amount is small compared to the department's total budget, which comes mainly from other UN funds. Despite this, many staff members are anxious about their jobs and pensions due to the funding uncertainties. In light of these changes, there are calls for reforms within the UN, particularly after Trump called for a review of its operations. The outcome of these cuts could have serious implications for UN employees and their families in the coming weeks.