Elon Musk's DOGE Initiative Triggers UN Liquidity Crisis
The Trump administration’s use of Elon Musk’s DOGE to cut USAID spending has led to a severe liquidity crisis within the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS).
In a significant development reported by Fox News Digital, the United Nations is grappling with its worst financial crisis since its inception, primarily due to funding cuts linked to the DOGE initiative spearheaded by Elon Musk. The crisis was highlighted in an internal email from Milan Victor Dawoh, president of the U.N. Field Staff Union, who pointed out that the cuts have resulted in a $30 million reduction in extra-budgetary resources, directly affecting UNDSS staffing and operations.
Dawoh’s communication revealed that as a direct consequence, UNDSS is set to lose 100 employees and drastically reduce its global presence, pulling out from 35 to 45 countries. The department will only maintain operations in 120 countries through newly established regional hubs. This drastic measure underscores the severity of the financial strain felt by the organization.
The UNDSS, described as a leader in global security risk management on its official website, plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of over 180,000 U.N. personnel worldwide. Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesman for U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, clarified that while USAID funding to UNDSS was approximately $20 million last year, the impact of the cuts extends beyond just the financial aspect. Haq emphasized that most of UNDSS’s funding comes from the U.N. regular budget and other sources, yet the loss of any funding stream is felt deeply.
Amidst these financial challenges, fears among U.N. staff are escalating. An anonymous U.N. source expressed concerns over the immediate future, including the potential inability to collect pensions or access credit union accounts. The situation is particularly dire for staff on G-4 visas, whose job losses could lead to broader implications, including difficulties in maintaining their legal status in the U.S.
The crisis at the UNDSS is part of a broader wave of financial uncertainty within the United Nations, exacerbated by the Trump administration’s broader review of U.N. funding. President Trump has publicly stated his belief that the U.N. has the potential to be more effective but criticized its current management.
As the situation unfolds, the repercussions of these funding cuts are likely to have a lasting impact on the operations and morale of the United Nations, raising questions about the future of international cooperation and security efforts.