U.N. Report Unveils Mounting Inefficiencies

A recent United Nations report highlights inefficiencies in handling mandates, revealing that many reports are not widely read. The report, part of the UN80 reform effort led by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, underscores the strain from numerous meetings and reports, and proposes streamlining processes to alleviate systemic pressures.

A United Nations report has exposed significant inefficiencies within the organization, detailing how many of its institutional reports remain largely unread.

During a briefing on the findings, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, head of the UN80 reform taskforce, emphasized the excessive number of meetings and reports managed by U.N. staff. Last year, these efforts produced 1,100 reports across 27,000 meetings, contributing to a systemic burden.

Addressing the longstanding financial challenges, Guterres recommended reducing meetings and limiting reports to ensure they adequately fulfill mandates. The initiative is part of broader reform measures as the U.N. commemorates its 80th year, amid ongoing challenges, including member states not paying dues timely.

(With inputs from agencies.)