the influence of phil in the UN  (1) Courtesy: Debarpan Das
5 February 2026

Influence of philanthropies in the UN

Over the last few decades, countries have stopped, delayed, or withheld their UN dues. The UN’s increasing financial needs have led to the acceptance of “voluntary” contributions. Those which come from any entities or individuals and are now its largest income stream. The biggest of these donors are the global philanthropies, which often have differing agendas from the UN’s responsibilities. This report studies these contributions and examines the linkages between donor priorities and UN mandates.

2 (6) Courtesy: Gateway House
5 February 2026

Influence of philanthropies in the UN

On January 7, 2026, the U.S. government announced its withdrawal from 31 UN organisations. This is a shock to the UN system. Several other countries have halted or only partially paid their dues over the years, creating a major funding gap. To cover for it, the UN has turned to “voluntary contributions” which come from philanthropic and private actors. Their misaligned mandates are distorting UN priorities.

un chief: woman-led or west-led? Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
7 April 2021

UN: Woman-led or West-led?

A new chief is due to occupy the chair of the UN Secretary General later this year. The lobbying for this prestigious global post has already begun. There is a rotation system that offers equal opportunities to regional blocs to promote their candidates. But this time, it's a toss between having the first woman to head the body, or continuing with the West-led bloc's candidate. Who will win? And where does India stand?