New York [US], May 13 (ANI): United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for extensive structural reforms within the UN to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, acknowledging that some of the changes would be “painful” for the UN community.
During a briefing on the UN80 Initiative in New York, Guterres outlined his vision to revamp the UN system, focusing on cutting costs, relocating services from high-cost duty stations, centralizing IT and support services, and expanding automation and digital platforms.
Guterres explained that the initiative is structured around three key workstreams. First, identifying efficiencies and improvements within current arrangements. Second, reviewing the implementation of all mandates given by Member States. Third, considering structural changes and program realignment across the UN system.
Under-Secretary-General Catherine Pollard is leading a Working Group tasked with developing a new business model for the UN. This includes identifying redundancies, streamlining processes, and designing integrated solutions. Priority areas include functional and structural consolidation, workforce streamlining, and moving services from high-cost to lower-cost locations.
Guterres emphasized that the immediate focus areas would be management and operations, with all Secretariat entities in New York and Geneva asked to review their functions to see if any can be moved to less expensive locations or reduced entirely.
A High-Level Committee on Management has also identified potential system-wide efficiency improvements in human resources, supply chain management, and information technology. Among the measures under consideration are resetting and merging departments, such as the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) and the Department of Peace Operations (DPO), with a potential 20 percent reduction in posts. Streamlining the civilian part of peacekeeping is also a priority. Another focus is consolidating all counter-terrorism activities within the Office of Counter-Terrorism (OCT). Additionally, there will be a review of the structure of regional offices and special representatives to increase efficiency.
Guterres stressed that while some of these changes may involve short-term costs, such as relocating staff and providing termination packages, the long-term savings would outweigh these initial expenses. He mentioned that the UN had already saved considerable amounts by terminating a building lease in New York and planned to vacate two more by 2027.
Acknowledging the potential impact on staff, Guterres assured that the restructuring process would be carried out humanely and professionally. He emphasized that staff and their representatives are being consulted to address their concerns and ensure a respectful transition.
Guterres called for cooperation from Member States, noting that many changes would require approval from the UN General Assembly. “We know that some of these changes will be painful for our UN family,” he said, but stressed that the reforms are necessary to ensure the UN’s continued relevance and efficiency.
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