Nordics demand action on UN reform. Cuts pending

“What we intend is a revolution within the UN System!" says Swedish Development Minister Alf Svensson. “The Nordic countries are major donors, which entitles us to voice our opinions."

Sweden has made substantial cuts in contributions to UN agencies this fiscal year, and the Minister warns that “tough times" are ahead if agencies fail to institute changes. Svensson wants to see UN agencies with more modest profiles, lower salaries, less bureaucracy and fewer fringe benefits. “Our responsibility is to the Swedish taxpayer, and we cannot continue to perpetuate the system as it is," he says.

The other Nordic countries share the Swedish concern, but are less blunt in their criticism. Finland’s reduced contributions to the main UN agencies are related to the country’s economic situation. Norway cuts allocations for UNDP, WHO and FAO. And the Danish funding level depends in part on how UN agencies respond.