UN Approves $5.4 Billion Peacekeeping Budget for 2025–2026

On Monday, the UN General Assembly approved a $5.38 billion budget for its 2025–2026 peacekeeping operations, a slight reduction from the $5.59 billion allocated for the 2024–2025 period, which covered 14 missions.

The new budget reflects adjustments following the closure of former missions in Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia. After several weeks of negotiations, the Assembly endorsed the funding for 12 active peacekeeping missions, as well as for the UN logistics hubs in Entebbe (Uganda) and Brindisi (Italy), and the peacekeeping support account.

All budget resolutions were passed without a vote, except for the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The UNIFIL budget was approved by 147 votes in favor, 3 against (Argentina, Israel, and the United States), and 1 abstention (Paraguay). Prior to the vote, Israel proposed an oral amendment, which was rejected by 83 votes against, 5 in favor (Argentina, Canada, Israel, Paraguay, and the US), and 57 abstentions.

Despite reaching agreement, UN Controller Chandramouli Ramanathan warned of the UN’s ongoing liquidity crisis. Speaking at the close of the Fifth Committee's negotiations, he stressed that financial constraints often force sudden budget cuts of up to 20%, jeopardizing mission execution.

“You manage to find common ground three times a year,” Ramanathan told delegates. “But I wish you had gone further to solve one of the UN’s most chronic issues.” He urged member states to make a greater financial commitment to address persistent shortfalls. “No money, no implementation,” he cautioned.

UN peacekeeping continues to be a cornerstone of the Organization’s efforts, with nearly 70,000 personnel—including military, police, and civilians—deployed in conflict zones across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Key missions include:

• MONUSCO in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
• UNFICYP in Cyprus
• MINUSCA in the Central African Republic

These missions, mandated by the UN Security Council, aim to stabilize regions, support political transitions, protect civilians, and promote disarmament and the rule of law.

It's important to note that the peacekeeping budget is distinct from the UN’s regular budget, which covers core programs such as human rights, development, and political affairs. The peacekeeping fiscal year runs from July to June, while the regular budget aligns with the calendar year.

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