UN Budget 2026 Cuts Target Lower Staff, Sparing Seniors

The United Nations’ proposed 2026 budget plans far smaller cuts to senior staff compared with lower-ranking employees, highlighting potential divisions as the institution faces declining financial support.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres aims to reduce the regular UN budget by 15 percent to improve efficiency amid a cash crisis as the UN turns 80. However, a draft budget shows only two of 58 under-secretary-general positions, or 3 percent, will be eliminated. In contrast, cuts of up to 28 percent are planned for lower-ranking staff, according to Reuters calculations.

Ian Richards, president of the UN Geneva Staff Union, criticized the proposal, saying it “will make the global body more top-heavy and bureaucratic.” UN humanitarian agencies with separate budgets are expected to cut more than a quarter of jobs.

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UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric defended the plan, saying reductions are “inevitable” where the workforce of more than 14,000 is largest. He added that the timing of the revised UN80 budget estimates precluded significant restructuring at senior levels, though future reductions could target top positions.

The US and China, contributing 40 percent of the regular budget, are among countries currently in arrears. US President Donald Trump recently criticized the UN but later told Guterres he supports the organization “100 percent.”

UN internal documents show the number of senior posts has grown over decades, partly due to member states guarding prestigious roles. Non-American under-secretaries-general earn nearly $270,000 tax-free, with additional allowances for relocation and dependents.

Experts say the proposals avoid controversial decisions at the top. Ronny Patz, a UN finance expert, noted Guterres’ approach “is definitely not bold” and leaves difficult choices unaddressed. Cuts under the plan include one under-secretary-general for policy and the special adviser on Cyprus, while six assistant secretary-general roles, or 11 percent, would also be trimmed.

Employee confidence in UN reforms remains low. A staff survey in August found fewer than 20 percent trust Guterres’ leadership, and under 10 percent believe job reforms are justified.

The revised budget requires approval by the UN General Assembly’s Fifth Committee in December after consultations with member states.