Staff Fearful as Liquidity Crisis Deepens, Reform Urged

U.S. Funding Cuts to UNDSS via DOGE Impact UN Security

The Trump administration's use of Elon Musk's DOGE to cut USAID spending is significantly impacting the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS). Internal U.N. emails obtained by Fox News Digital reveal that the USAID funding cut resulted in a $30 million reduction in UNDSS's extra-budgetary resources, leading to significant staff cuts and a reduction in its presence in 35 to 45 countries.

UNDSS President Milan Victor Dawoh warns that the U.N. is facing its worst liquidity crisis since its establishment and expects the situation to worsen. He emphasizes that UNDSS is not a protection agency but a risk management and analysis entity.

Despite receiving only $20 million from USAID last year, UNDSS relies heavily on its regular budget, cost-sharing mechanisms, and the peace support account. With 2,250 personnel supporting 180,000 U.N. personnel globally, UNDSS plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of U.N. programs.

U.N. staff are fearful of their immediate future due to the financial uncertainty, with concerns about pensions, access to accounts, and visa status. The impact extends beyond job losses, affecting families and potentially hindering U.N. agency operations.

President Trump's executive order calling for a review of U.N. funding highlights the need for reform. While the world body has "tremendous potential," it requires better management to effectively serve its purpose.