Fifth Committee, 30th plenary meeting - General Assembly, Second part of the resumed 80th session

I call to order the 30th meeting of the Fifth committee at the second part of the resumed ATS session.
I invite the committee to begin its consideration of agenda item 148 entitled, Administrative and Budgetary Aspects of the financing of the United Nations Peacekeeping operations, in particular, the question of cross cutting issues.
In this connection, I first invite the Deputy Controller and Director, Finance Division Office of Program Planning Finance and Budget, miss Maria Acosta, to introduce the report of the Secretary-General on the overview of the financing of the United Nations Peacekeeping operations, budget performance for the period from first July 2024 to 30 June 2025, and budget for period from first July 2026 to 30 June 2027, contained in document A slash 80 slash 643.
Miss Costa, you have the floor.
Thank you, Madam Chair and distinguished delegates.
I have the honor to introduce the report of the Secretary-General on the overview of the financing of the United Nations Peacekeeping operations, that is a slash 80 slash 643 under agenda item 148.
On the overview, the report before the committee provides an overview of the financial and administrative aspects of UN peacekeeping operations.
The introduction section outlines the organization's current and future efforts to strengthen the effectiveness and performance of UN peacekeeping and the culture of efficiencies.
Sections two to 11 is structured in line with actions for peacekeeping plus.
Section 12 provides an update on strengthening the culture of efficiency.
The subsequent sections of the report, that's Sections 13 to 17 and the annexes thereto, focus on budgetary and financial aspects.
Updated information to the General Assembly's cross cutting requests, including its resolution 76 slash 274 is included throughout the report.
To briefly highlight key points on the performance for 24 25 and the proposals for 26 27 as follows.
The budget performance for 24 25, the total approved budget for that period amounted to 5.6 billion.
The overall unencumbered balance of 160.1 million represents 2.9% of the total apportionment.
Turning to the 26 27 proposed budget, the proposed budgets for that period amount to 5.2 billion, representing a decrease of 425.6 million or 7.5% compared to the 2025 26 period, excluding UNSCO, which did not have a 12 month budget during the 25 26 period, the budget proposals amount to 4.828 billion for the 26 27 period, which represents a decrease of 10.4% or 557.8 million compared with the 25 26 period.
The 26 27 budget formulation and reporting cycle marks a significant evolution towards more accountable, data driven and results oriented framework for peacekeeping operations.
Support was provided to missions to capitalize on the efforts undertaken to reduce expenditures in the current period necessitated by reduced collections of member states contributions and transform them to the extent feasible into targeted efficiencies and cost reductions in the 26 27 budgets.
Missions contributed to $387 million in projected sustainable efficiencies.
A major reform is the introduction of a unified peacekeeping budget and performance report template, which consolidates the 24 25 performance report and the proposed 26 27 budget into a single report.
This streamlined format is designed to meet the needs of all key stakeholders by delivering more meaningful, focused, and analytically robust information.
Report also addresses the acute liquidity situation and the Secretary-General proposal that credits in respect of the 24 2025 financial period be placed in a reserve.
Madam Chair, Distinguished delegates, the United Nations peacekeeping remains one of the organization's most important and visible conflict management and resolution instrument.
It is critical that our missions receive adequate resources to effectively discharge the mandates given to them by the Security Council, the ultimate beneficiaries are the people of the countries where our peacekeepers serve.
We look forward to discussions on these items.
Thank you, Madam Chair.
I thank miss Costa for her introduction.
I now invite the Assistant Secretary-General for the Office of Supply Chain Management, Department of Operational Support, miss Annemarie Vander Berg, to introduce the report of the Secretary-General on the triennial review of the rates and standards for reimbursement to member states for contingent on equipment, contained in document A slash 80 slash 646.
Miss Vander Berg, you have the floor.
Thank you, Madam Chair, Distinguished members of the committee.
I'm honored to introduce the report of the Secretary-General on the triennial review of the rates and standards for reimbursement to member states for contingent owned equipment, also known as the COE working group.
Since adoption of the system in 1996 by the General Assembly resolution 50 slash 222, the rates of reimbursement, the procedures, and the standards are reviewed every three years by the COE working group.
Madam Chair, this year, the COE working group held its meetings in New York 19-30 January, preceded by a one day organizational session on November 2025 to elect the bureau members and adopt the agenda.
About 280 delegates from 80 countries participated and discussed 120 issue papers, both from member states and the Secretariat, along with national cost data submitted by 30 member states.
The Secretariat was represented by the Department of Operational Support through the Uniformed Capability Support Division of the Office of Supply Chain Management.
Madam Chair, the 2026 COE working group agreed on 63 actionable recommendations which are included in the letter of the chair of the working group to the Fifth committee, document A slash 80 slash 636.
The financial implications for implementing these recommendations are estimated at an additional $13.44 million as per the 2025 26 budget parameter for COE.
The increase is primarily attributable to the decision of the COE working group to increase 1.58% or $10.76 million for the reimbursement rates for major equipment and self sustainment and 2.67 million for other recommendations.
These additional requirements have not been included in the 2026 27 peacekeeping budget proposal currently under your review.
The working group has recommended some notable changes in the reimbursement framework, including introduction of usage based reimbursement system for most types of support vehicles and prime power generators.
The first major substantive revision to the CUE framework since its establishment 30 years ago in 1996.
Another significant advancement is the standardization of the ammunition reimbursement rates and the strengthening of the related policies, which will improve budget management and streamline the administrative process for managing claims.
Examples of other key recommendations include the introduction of counter unmanned aircraft systems into the COE framework.
Clarifications of the reimbursement policy governing cessation of operations, the establishment of maximum authorized numbers of containers for initial deployment and repatriation, the installation of field remote infrastructure monitoring for generators and a pilot project on passive vehicle fleet management devices.
The extension of the eligibility for rotation at UN expense to all categories of major equipment, while reaffirming that approval remains subject to operational priorities and the availability of funding within the existing cap of $8 million.
In the medical domain, measures were adopted to enhance operational effectiveness, equity, and welfare, including a modular reimbursement approach for level two and level three hospitals.
It also strengthened gender responsive hygiene support through the establishment of a female hygiene kit.
These recommendations clearly demonstrate that the working group concentrated on strengthening efficiency, performance, and accountability of the CUE framework, including enhancing medical support.
Madam Chair, finally, I wish to highlight the working group chairs proposal conveyed in his letter to the chair of the Fifth committee to continue holding a pre session organizational meeting like the one on 20 November 2025 to elect Bureau and adopt the agenda.
My colleagues and I stand ready to respond to any questions that you may have regarding this report.
Thank you.
I thank miss Van Den Berg for her introduction.
In this connection, I would also like to draw the attention of the committee to the report of the 2026 working group on contingent owned equipment contained in document A slash 80 slash 636.
Under the same agenda item, in accordance with General Assembly resolution 50 slash 239, I now invite the Under Secretary-General for Internal Oversight Services, miss Fatumata Nya, to introduce the report of that office on the activities of the Office of Internal Oversight Services on Peace operations for the period from first January to 31, December 2025, contained in document A slash 80 slash 332 Part two.
Miss Nya, you have the floor.
Thank you, Madam Chair.
Madam Chair, Distinguished members of the Fifths Committee.
I am pleased to introduce today part two of the OIUS annual report, which provides an overview of OIUS activities pertaining to peace operations, including all peacekeeping and special political and peace building missions and the headquarters entities directly supporting them, such as DPO, DPPA, DMSPC end DOS during the period from first January to 31 December 2025.
During 2025, OIOS issued 487 oversight reports relating to Peace operations, including 421 investigation reports, 55 internal audit reports, and eight evaluation reports.
Those reports included 761 recommendations, none of which were critical to address risks that may have an impact on the adequacy and effectiveness of organizational risk management, governance, and operations to deliver mandated results.
All but four of these recommendations were accepted by program managers.
OIUS received effective cooperation from management and staff in entities covered by OIUS oversight activities during the reporting period.
OIUS also continued to meet regularly with the board of auditors and the Joint inspection unit to communicate work plans and share insights to facilitate the efficient and effective discharge of respective mandates.
I am also pleased to report that there were no inappropriate scope limitations that impeded the work or independence of OIOS during the reporting period.
Madam Chair, as detailed in the report, in 2025, our eight evaluation covered, among other things, mandate implementation in UNA, protection of civilians in UNMISS, security and human rights in Monusco, civilian safety in Uundof and the contribution of AI Monusk, Minusma, Monusco and Unis to ending and preventing grave violations against children affected by armed conflict.
We also provided methodological seminars, guidelines, and reference materials to P operations to enhance their evaluation capabilities.
Our 55 audits covered areas such as recruitment of staff and consultants in Unisy and UNMISS, acquisition planning, procurement and contract management in UNAMA, Monusco UNIFIL, and UNSA, warehousing in OIS and Osource, cybersecurity in DOS, waste management in OIS and Usource, gender parity and gender responsiveness in MonusC Unis FA, UNMISS and OSource and mission roll down in UNAM.
Our 421 investigations continue to play a part in enhancing accountability across peacekeeping operations.
We prioritize investigation into reports involving risk to the organization resources such as for theft, misappropriation, and medical insurance fraud, and continue to advocate a victim centered approach in our investigations of sexual misconduct.
Madam Chair, distinguished members of the Fifth committee, we would like to thank Secretariat management and staff for their cooperation in our oversight work and express appreciation to all member states for your invaluable support.
My colleagues and I look forward to the dialogues that this session brings.
Thank you, Madam Chair.
I thank miss Nya for her introduction.
I next invite the special coordinator on improving the United Nations response to sexual exploitation and abuse, Mr.
Christian Sanders, to introduce the report of the Secretary-General on special measures for protection from sexual exploitation and sexual abuse contained in document A slash 80 slash 644.
Mr.
Saunders, you have the floor.
Thank you, Madam Chair.
Good morning, distinguished members of the committee.
I have the honor to introduce Secretary-General report on special measures for the Protection from sexual exploitation and abuse A 8644 covering the period from January to 31 December 2025.
The report details measures taken to strengthen the United Nations system wide response to sexual exploitation and abuse.
The report comes at a critical time.
System wide funding cuts during 2025 have exposed the fragility of resourcing for the protection from sexual exploitation and abuse.
Deep reductions to vital programs and assistance are leaving populations more vulnerable and increasing the risks of exploitation.
At the same time, the United Nations capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to SEA has been severely compromised, even in the highest operational settings.
Highest risk operational settings.
In 2025, two major global reviews assessed system wide progress on this issue.
Both found that we have made progress since the introduction of the Secretary-General new approach in 2017.
We have strengthened our normative frameworks, coordination, and leadership accountability, improved transparency and public reporting, and enhanced a victim centered approach in both policy and practice.
However, ladies and gentlemen, our work is far from complete.
Both reviews identified a persistent gap between PSEA policies and standards and their effective implementation.
They found that the challenges that challenges remain across all areas of the UN's response.
In short, we're failing our clients, communities, and victims of sexual exploitation and abuse.
Most importantly, they concluded that the most serious obstacle to meaningful progress on this issue is the absence of adequate and predictable resourcing.
Madam Chair, distinguished members of the committee, this report draws upon the findings and the recommendations of both reviews to chart a path forward based upon four priorities.
These are securing adequate and predictable financing to provide for a cost effective and efficient PSEA response, particularly at the country level, continuing to strengthen and harmonize our policy frameworks, institutionalizing a victim centered approach, and finally, advancing a renewed system wide strategy.
Madam Chair, distinguished members of the committee, the United Nations stands at a critical juncture.
We cannot allow hard won progress on sexual exploitation and abuse to be lost.
As we look to the future, we have an opportunity to consolidate our progress and institutionalize our approach.
Most importantly, doing so will require deliberate and sustained investment in PSEA capacities across all areas in headquarters, in the agency's funds and programs at the country level, and in particular in high risk field settings.
In the coming year, my office will explore options for sustainable financing of core PSEA capacities at headquarters and country level, including for interagency PSEA coordination, coordinator positions in high risk countries, PSEA advisors in regional offices, and support to the Office of the Victims' Rights advocate, along with support for victims.
Madam Chair and distinguished members of the committee, we're not talking about large sums of money here, and now more than ever, we need the proactive support of member states to drive this forward.
Without predictable and sustainable financing, we will fail to fulfill our and your commitment to safeguard our personnel, our partners, and the communities we serve from sexual misconduct.
Thank you, Madam Chair.
I thank Mr.
Sanders for his introduction.
Under the same agenda item in accordance with General Assembly resolution 50 slash 233, I now invite the inspector of the Joint Inspection Unit, miss Eileen Cronin, to introduce the report of the Joint Inspection Unit entitled Review of Policies and Practices to prevent and Respond to sexual exploitation and abuse in the United Nations System Organizations, contained in document A slash 80 slash 609.
Miss Cronin, you have the floor.
Madam Chair, Distinguished delegates, thank you for the opportunity to introduce the review of United Nations system policies and practices to prevent and respond to sexual exploitation and abuse.
The review assessed policy frameworks, interagency coordination, prevention and response measures, and the use of a victim centered approach.
Conducted from January 2024 to March 2025, it drew on case data 2017-2024, during which more than 4,000 allegations were recorded across the UN system in all operating contexts, including nearly 1,100 substantiated cases and 342 paternity claims.
The report issued 15 recommendations, nine for executive heads, one for the Secretary-General, two for governing bodies, and three for the General Assembly.
Madam Chair, Distinguished delegates, I will focus on the findings and recommendations most pertinent to the General Assembly.
With the majority of allegations categorized as sexual exploitation, PSEA policies remain unclear, inconsistent, and incomplete.
Most policies emphasize victim categories rather than the conduct of UN personnel and overlook the shared drivers of SEA and sexual harassment, including power imbalances and gender inequality.
A unified sexual misconduct policy as adopted by WHO, UNHCR, UNH, and UNICEF would better center behavior of UN personnel and embed a victim centered approach.
Recommendation three ask the General Assembly and governing bodies to request updates on policy revisions, including the ongoing review of SGB 2003 slash 13, the system's most widely used PSEA policy.
Both GIU and OIOS identified significant gaps in the Secretariat's public reporting with more than 100 SEA allegations missing from official platforms.
Recommendation six calls on the General Assembly to require full transparency on all SEA allegations against all personnel of the UN Secretariat, not just those working in humanitarian and peacekeeping context.
Peace operations continue to generate high profile cases.
Yes, yet policy and procedural gaps persist for non UN forces operating under a Security Council mandate.
The General Assembly and Security Council must work with the Secretariat to close these gaps and ensure coherence.
Relatedly, more than 500 paternity claims remain unresolved, reflecting persistent accountability challenges for member states.
Recommendation 14 calls on the General Assembly to establish a mechanism to develop a clear adjudication process.
A new interagency PSEA strategy is being developed to update the Secretary-General 2017 strategy.
Monitoring its development is essential and once presented General Assembly endorsement as requested in the final recommendation in the review will be essential and give the strategy legitimacy and drive system wide implementation.
Finally, the data mentioned earlier show a steady increase over a seven year period.
Last year, 2025 was an anomaly with decreases in peace operations and implementing partners and a slight increase in allegations against UN personnel.
The lower numbers in 2025 are concerning, especially in the current context.
We know that the UN's monitoring, outreach, reporting, and safeguarding capacity has diminished in the last year.
We need to be concerned about trends going in both directions, increases and decreases, especially when these deviate from an unexpected or normal trajectory.
The current context in the UN system where resources such as jobs, aid or assistance are scarce, has deepened power imbalances and create the conditions where abuse of power for sexual gain can flourish.
Madam Chairman, Distinguished delegates, thank you for your consideration of this report.
I thank miss Cronin for her introduction.
I now invite the Senior Program Management Officer of the United Nations System Chief Executive S Board for Coordination, miss Federica Pietracci to introduce the note by the Secretary-General transmitting his comments and those of the United Nations System Chief Executive Board for Coordination on the report of the Joint Inspection Unit just introduced, contained in document A slash 80 slash 609 slash addendum one.
Miss Pietracci, you have the floor.
Good morning.
Thank you, Madam Chair, Distinguished delegates.
I'm pleased to introduce on behalf of the United Nations System Chief Executive Board for coordination, the note of the Secretary-General conveying his comments and those of the CB member organizations on the report of the Joint Inspection Unit entitled Review of Policies and Practices to prevent and Respond to sexual exploitation and abuse in UN system organizations as contained in document A slash 80 slash six oh nine slash addendum one.
Organizations of the UN system welcomed the report and expressed broad appreciation for its comprehensive and timely analysis of efforts to prevent and respond to sexual exploitation and abuse.
They underscored its contribution to advancing system wide coherence, accountability, and victim and survival centered approaches, while noting the continued relevance of the issue across humanitarian development and peace contexts.
At the same time, organizations emphasize that while Important progress has been achieved.
Sustained efforts remain necessary to consolidate gains and address remaining gaps, including in policy frameworks, victim assistance, partnered screening, data management, and accountability.
They highlighted that the effective and timely implementation of the recommendations will depend on the availability of adequate financial and human resources, as well as alignment with ongoing system wide policy revisions and initiatives.
Entities further underscore the importance of maintaining coherence while respecting the diversity of mandates, legal frameworks, and operational context across the system.
They noted that several recommendations require collective system wide action and reffffirmed the value of existing interagency mechanisms in ensuring coordinated, realistic and effective implementation, including under the leadership of the Office of the Special Coordinator on improving the UN response to sexual exploitation and abuse and in close coordination with the Office of the Victims' Rights Advocate and other relevant stakeholders.
On behalf of the organizations of the UN system, I would like to thank the Joint Inspection Unit for this important and timely review.
Thank you, Madam Chair.
I thank miss Pietracci for her introduction.
I now invite the chair of the Advisory Committee on administrative and budgetary questions, Juliana Gaspar Ras to introduce the related reports of that committee as listed in today's journal.
Miss Gaspar Ras, you have the floor.
Thank you, Madam Chair, Distinguished delegates.
I am pleased to introduce the reports to the advisory committee on cross cutting issues related to peacekeeping operations on the triennial review of the rates and standards for reimbursement for contingent on equipment and on special measures for protection from sexual exploitation and abuse.
At the outset, the committee commends all United Nations uniformed and civilian personnel for their work under challenging circumstances and pays tribute to those who have lost their lives in the service of peace.
The committee notes that peacekeeping missions continue to operate in increasingly challenged and complex environments, compounded by persistent and worsening liquidity constraints.
These constraints have required prioritization, sequencing, and scale down of activities, limiting operational flexibility and affecting full mandate implementation.
The committee recalls that the General Assembly has repeatedly urged all member states to fulfill their financial obligations on time in full and without conditions.
Madam Chair, the committee acknowledged the strategic approach launched by the Secretary-General to promote cost effectiveness and a culture of efficiency and peacekeeping missions, including efforts undertaken in the context of the UN AT initiative.
At the same time, the committee stresses the need to move beyond one time expenditure compression towards sustainable efficiencies, supported by improved planning, strengthen internal controls, and effective accountability.
Moving to the area of human resources, the committee reiterates the need for a more integrated staffing review process with clear delineation of roles and responsibilities between headquarters and missions.
The committee also stresses the importance of transparent and comprehensive reporting on separation related costs, including those arising from contingency measures and early separation and underscores the need for a refined methodology for common staff costs.
On operational matters, the committee stresses the importance of strengthened supply chain management, including improved demand planning and internal sourcing and asset management.
Finally, the advisory committee stresses the importance of establishing a positive legacy for peacekeeping missions to be pursued through quick impact projects, programmatic activities, environmental and renewable energy initiatives, responsible asset management and disposal, and enhanced capacity building and knowledge transfer.
Madam Chair, on the triennial review of the rates and standards reimbursements for contingent owned equipment, the committee draws attention to key recommendations of the 2026 working group on contingent owned equipment, including those related to counter unmanned aircraft systems, usage based reimbursement, and the clarification of arrangements for the repatriation and disposal of contingent owned equipment.
The committee stresses the importance of timely development of the necessary policies and guidelines for the implementation of the recommendations and trusts that preliminary information on expected efficiencies and updates on their realization will be provided to the General Assembly.
I will now turn to the committee's report on special measures for protection from sexual exploitation and abuse.
The committee welcomes the development of renewed system wide protection strategy, accompanied by a costed implementation framework and emphasizes that financing, accountability, and system wide coherence are interdependent and must be addressed in an integrated and coherent manner.
The committee stresses the effective implementation and strengthen accountability will be critical to achieving measurable results.
The committee further underscores the need for sustained senior level attention, effective system wide coordination, and consistent implementation across all entities.
The committee further stresses the need to accelerate the resolution of paternity and child support claims, ensuring timely, adequate and accessible assistance to all victims, including the remission transitions and drawdowns.
Thank you, Madam Chair.
I thank miss Gaspar Rous for her introduction.
Finally, I would like to draw the attention of the committee to the notes by the Secretary-General on the approved and the proposed budgetary levels for peacekeeping operations for the period from first July 2025 to 30 June 2026 and from a July 2026 to 30 June 2027, respectively, contained in document a slash slash 80 slash 17 and a slash slash 80 slash 18.
The floor is now open for any delegation who wishes to make a statement.
I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uruguay on behalf of G 77 and China.
Thank you, Madam Chair.
I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the group of 77 in China on agenda item 148, cross cutting issues related to administrative and budgetary aspects of financing UN peacekeeping operations.
The group would like to thank Deputy Controller Acosta, ASG Vanderberg, USG Idle, USG Sunders, Inspector Cronin, Senior Officer Pietracci, and ACABQ Chair Gaspar Ras for the presentation of the respective reports.
Madam Chair, the group takes note of the proposed reduction of 12.4% in the overall peacekeeping budget for 2026, 2027, excluding new mandates, reflecting continued adjustments in the size and configuration of missions, including transitions, drawdowns, and the implementation of efficiency measures.
The group stresses that any reductions must be data driven, evidence based, and subject to thorough assessment so as to not undermine safe and effective mandate delivery, particularly in complex and high risk environments.
Group expresses serious concern regarding the persistent and worsening liquidity challenges affecting peacekeeping operations.
We note that unpaid assessed contributions have reached significant levels resulting in reduced cash balances, increased reliance on cross borrowing, and delayed reimbursements to troop and police contributing countries, including important deferrals for contingent owned equipment.
These developments are not sustainable and risk undermining both Monday delivery and the credibility of the organization.
In this regard, the group reiterates that the timely and full payment of assessed contributions by all member states remains the only sustainable solution to the organization's liquidity challenges.
We emphasize that financial constraints should not be addressed through measures that compromise the effective functioning of missions or shift the burden onto those member states that contribute personnel and capabilities to peacekeeping operations as it is now the case.
The group acknowledges the secretariat's efforts to promote a culture of efficiency and cost effectiveness.
While we support genuine efficiency gains, we stress the importance of clearly distinguishing between structural efficiencies and short term expenditure compression measures, such as hiring freezes and delayed deployments, which may have adverse implications for mandate implementation.
Safety and security of personnel and timely reimbursements to TCCs and PCCs.
The group further notes that the current financial environment has led to the prioritization and scaling down of activities in several missions with potential implications for the full implementation of mandates.
In this regard, we stress the importance of comprehensive and transparent reporting on the impact of such contingency measures, including on Monday delivery, operational effectiveness, and the safety and security of personnel.
Group reiterates its long standing concern regarding the lack of equitable geographical representation within the UN, particularly at senior levels and in entities supporting peacekeeping operations.
In this regard, the group underscores the importance of ensuring the fair and balanced representation of developing countries, including TCCs and PCCs across all levels of staffing, both in the field and at headquarters, including in departments funded through the support account.
With respect to the report of the OIOS, the group notes the significant volume of oversight activities and recommendations issued in relation to peace operations.
We underscore the importance of effective follow up to these recommendations, particularly in areas such as procurement, supply chain management, mission transitions, and internal controls to strengthen accountability and improve operational performance.
Turning to the reports on protection from sexual exploitation and abuse, The group acknowledges the progress made in strengthening policy frameworks and coordination mechanisms across the system.
At the same time, we note with concern that efforts remain uneven with persistent gaps in prevention, accountability, and victim support.
We stress that a system wide, properly resourced and fully institutionalized approach is essential to effectively address this issue.
In this regard, the group emphasizes the importance of the development of a renewed system wide strategy, including a costed implementation framework, clear indicators and strengthen accountability mechanisms.
We look forward to further information on how these elements will be integrated into existing structures and supported through predictable and sustainable financing.
The group also acknowledges the report of the JIU on the emphasis placed on enhancing system wide coherence, strengthening coordination mechanisms, and ensuring a victim centered approach that upholds the principles of presumption of innocence, impartiality, and fairness.
We underline that the effective implementation of these recommendations will depend on sustained resourcing, a clear delineation of responsibilities, and strong commitment across all entities.
With respect to the report on the triennial review of contingent owned equipment, the group expresses its appreciation for the work of the 2026 working group, which brought together a broad range of technical expertise and achieved a significant number of consensus based outcomes.
We know the progress made in advancing reforms aimed at enhancing accountability, operational readiness, and transparency.
The group will examine carefully the proposed changes, including the introduction of usage based reimbursement models to ensure that they are implemented in a fair, transparent, and practical manner, considering the perspectives of TCCs BCCs.
Madam Chair, in conclusion, the G of G 77 and China reiterates its commitment to engage in constructively on this agenda item, I think you.
I thank you and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland on behalf of Switzerland and Lichtenstein.
Thank you very much on behalf of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
We would like to thank the Secretary-General, the Advisory Committee and all the relevant bodies for their reports.
In this committee, we examine peacekeeping missions through the prism of budgets, mandates and efficiency gains, but behind every decision, there are people.
Allow me to pay tribute to all those engaged in peace operations and to honor those who have given their lives for peace.
Madam Chair, allow me to highlight three issues that require our immediate attention.
First of all, we recognize the considerable efforts made to foster a culture of efficiency.
The budget proposals for 2026 27 reflect significant reductions and efficiency gains.
Efficiency is necessary and we support it, but efficiency cannot compensate for a lack of liquidity.
Contingency plans have tangible consequences.
They affect the protection of civilians or the safety of staff, as we have seen with the increase in targeted attacks against peacekeepers and the deaths recorded in 2025.
And indeed this year.
In this context, we call on all member states to pay their assessed contributions in full, on time, and without conditions.
Secondly, we remain deeply concerned about the persistence of sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment throughout the UN system.
This continues to be treated as an option, whereas in reality, it constitutes an inherent cost of the very functioning of this organization.
We welcome the first review of this issue by the Joint Inspection Unit.
The findings are worrying.
Only five of the 28 participating organizations have incorporated consistent provisions on sexual exploitation and abuse into their key internal policy documents and far too many cases still result in no disciplinary action.
This strikes at the very heart of the credibility and values upon which the UN's work is based.
We encourage UN entities and member states to implement the reviews recommendations, including the development of a comprehensive system wide strategy.
We also welcome efforts to strengthen accountability, notably Clear Check 2.0 and mandatory predeployment training for military and police commanders.
We also take note of the work of the high level working group on paternity and maintenance claims.
More than 500 claims involving peacekeeping mission personnel remain unresolved.
Children born as a result of sexual exploitation and abuse must not bear the consequences of institutional delays or insufficient cooperation.
We are particularly concerned about the persistent gaps in victim assistance.
A victim centered approach cannot remain a rhetorical principle, but must be translated into concrete and operational policies.
The credibility of our collective commitment is not measured by the strength of our language, but by the protection and assistance actually provided to victims.
Thirdly, we commend the work of the Office of Internal Oversight Services.
High number of recommendations issued in 2025 confirms the importance of robust independent oversight, the impact of which depends on swift and systemic implementation.
Its findings highlight persistent risks.
In a context of budgetary constraints, any inadequate management of resources undermines the implementation of mandates and jeopardizes the trust placed in the UN.
Madam Chair, these challenges call for a single response, strengthening accountability at all levels.
Switzerland and Lichtenstein will participate constructively in the forthcoming discussions with a view to adopting a cross cutting resolution providing clear guidance for all peacekeeping missions.
Thank you.
I thank you and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Dibouti on behalf of the African group.
Madam Chair, I have the honor to deliver the statement on behalf of the African group on agenda item 148 concerning the administrative and budgetary aspect of the financing of UN peacekeeping operation under the cross cutting issue, including the overview of peacekeeping financing and contingent on equipment.
At the outsides, the African group thanks the Secretariat and the ACABQ for the presentation of their respective report.
The group aligned itself with the statement delivered by the distinguished representative of Uruguay on behalf of the Group of G seven and China.
Madam Chair, the African group reaffirmed the central role of UN peacekeeping as one of the most effective multilateral instrument for the maintenance of international peace and security.
This is particularly important for Africa where many of the most complex and demanding peacekeeping operations continue to be deployed, often in volatile environment marked by political uncertainty, security threats, humanitarian needs, and evolving mandate requirement.
The group take notes of the proposed resources for peacekeeping operation for the 26 27 period, amounting to approximately 5.2 billion reflecting an overall decrease compared with the approved resources for 25 26.
While the group support genuine efficiencies, cost effectiveness, and responsible stewardship of resources, we stress that reduction must be based on realistic planning assumption and operational requirements.
Efficiencies must not be achieved through measure that weaken mandate implementation, reduce operational flexibility, or compromise the safety and security of uniform and civilian personnel.
Beyond individual mission, the African group underscores several cost cutting priorities that should guide our consideration during that session.
These include the need to balance efficiency gains with operational effectiveness, to ensure realistic vacancy rate aligned with actual recruitment capacity, to strengthen data driven and technology enabled peacekeeping while ensuring equitable access across mission.
To enhance accountability frameworks, both for performance and for the safety and security of peacekeepers and to address the impact of liquidity constraints which continue to affect mandate delivery across Miss.
In this regard, the group reiterate that resources decision must be guided by mandates, not the reverse.
Peacekeeping budget should reflect field realities and operational demand, particularly in Africa where mission operate under some of the most challenging conditions.
The group therefore cautions against approach that reduce resources as the starting point of mandate for mandate implementation rather than a consequence of careful ed based assessment of mission needs.
Madam Chair, the African group expressed serious concern regarding the deteriorating financial situation of UN peacekeeping operation, particularly the high level of unpaid assess contribution.
The group is further concerned that this persistent shortfall has necessitate extensive cross borrowing across mission and from the peacekeeping reserve fund, a mechanism that now appears to have reached its limit.
The situation has led to increasing delays to reimbursement to troop and police contributing countries, including for Cortesion owned equipment.
The group notes with concern the outstanding payment to TCC PCC amounted to 315.6 million as of 30 June 2025, rising to further 482.8 million by December 2025.
These delays place unfair burden to TCC PCCs, many of which are developing countries and many of which continue to provide personnel, equipment, and capabilities under difficult and high risk condition.
This development undermined the operational effectiveness, credibility, and sustainability of peacekeeping mission.
Delaying reimbursement or shifting financial burden onto TCC PCC risk weakening the partnership between UN and TCCPCC, which remain indispensable to the success of peacekeeping.
In this regard, the African group call upon all member states to fulfill the financial obligation in full on time and without condition.
The group further calls on member states to give due and positive consideration to the proposal of the Secretary-General aimed at addressing the liquidity crisis, including measures to ensure the continuity of operation and to avoid any disruption or halt in peacekeeping activity.
Madam President.
Madam Chair, the group also notes that measures as a result of the liquidity constraints, notably hiring freezes, deferred deployments, and staggered disbursements and reduces of expenditure can have significant impact on the implementation of mandates.
We stress the need to have clear, transparent, comprehensive reports on the impact of these measures on the missions, including on operational capacity, safety and security and support to the personnel deployed.
We also stress that the quest for efficiency must be clearly distinguished from the need to reduce short term expenditure.
Genuine efficiency must improve the effectiveness of peacekeeping operations, and it shouldn't just be about cost cutting.
When it comes to contingent owned equipment, the African group expresses its acknowledgment for the work of the 2026 working group in this regard.
We note the importance of ensuring that any reforms proposed in this regard be transparent, equitable, and practical and respond to operational realities.
Predictable reimbursement for material is critical for operational preparations.
Finally, Madam Chair, the African group reiterates its commitment to engaging constructively in the negotiations under this agenda item.
Our objective is clear to ensure that the UN peacekeeping operations are adequately resourced, effectively supported, and able to deliver fully on their mandates while upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, equitable burden sharing, and sound financial management as well.
I thank you.
I thank you and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Israel.
Thank you, Madam Chair, for giving me the floor.
Thank you to all the relevant bodies for their reports.
The state of Israel pays tribute to the United Nations peacekeepers that have lost their lives in service.
We also extend our deepest appreciation to all the women and men currently serving on the front lines of UN peacekeeping operations.
Madam Chair, UN peacekeeping must remain effective, accountable, and responsive to an increasingly volatile global landscape.
As a participant in this year's working group on contingent owned equipment, Israel welcomes the consensus reached to modernize the COE system and manual.
We were pleased to see concrete progress on issues that matter in the field, updated buddy first aid kits, stronger attention to hygiene and sanitation, and improved point of injury care.
Israel welcomes the planned work on enhanced medical support in the field, including through studies on telemedicine and to strengthen mental health and psychosocial care for all uniformed personnel.
Peacekeepers must be able to receive timely, high quality care where and when they need it most.
We also welcome the important steps taken to support the full and dignified participation of women peacekeepers, including work on female hygiene kits and the provision of a wider range of menstrual products.
But progress on paper must translate into progress on the field.
There is still a long way to go before all female personnel are fully integrated into missions with facilities and equipment that reflect their needs in practice, not only in policy.
While in women peacekeepers can serve fully equally and safely.
Missions are stronger, communities are better served, and peacekeeping is more effective.
Israel also recognizes the important role of women protection advisors in translating protection mandates into practice, including in the prevention of and response to conflict related sexual violence.
Their expertise strengthens mission's ability to identify risks, engage with communities, and ensure that protection concerns are reflected in decision making on the ground.
Madam Chair, When those who serve under the United Nations flag violate its principles, they do more than harm individuals.
They weaken the trust on which peacekeeping depends.
Zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse cannot be a slogan.
It must be a standard of leadership, accountability, and action.
A victim and survivor centered approach must be put into practice across the system, not merely endorsed in principle.
Accountability must be timely, credible, and effective.
Israel remains deeply concerned by the slow pace of accountability.
Including the large number of unresolved paternity and child support claims.
Victims, survivors, and children cannot be left waiting years for justice.
The organization must continue to identify practical ways to shorten the time between allegation and accountability.
Protection against retaliation is also essential.
Survivors, witnesses, and whistleblowers must be able to come forward safely without fear of reprisal.
A victim centered approach cannot be built without victims voices.
Their voices must shape the assistance, protection, and accountability the United Nations provides.
Madam Chair, Israel remains committed to working with all member states to ensure that peacekeeping is effective, accountable, and worthy of the trust placed in it by those who serve and by the civilians they are sent to protect.
My delegation looks forward to the upcoming discussions and the successful outcome of this important agenda item.
Thank you, Madam Chair.
I thank you and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Madam Madam Chair, my delegation congratulates you on presiding over the work of the second part of the resumed session on the budgets of the UN's peacekeeping missions.
I also would like to wish you every success and commend your leadership, which will surely lead us to our desired outcomes.
We also pay tribute to the civilians and peacekeepers who have fallen under the UN banner as they carried out their mission.
I made the statement in my national capacity.
For the DRC, the success of peacekeeping depends first and foremost on the ability to find political, long lasting solutions to foster conditions for restoring peace.
Peace operations have the essential missions of supporting political processes, protecting civilians, facilitating humanitarian aid, and protecting human rights.
My country, the DRC, despite the many crises that it is facing, due to the attacks it has suffered for three decades now has never failed to provide its financial contributions to allow the UN to accomplish its mandate and achieve its goals.
The DRC believes that all necessary means for the implementation of mandates ought to be provided to all missions and to Monusco to allow it to operate effectively in all operation areas without hindrance in strict accordance to resolutions 276-52-0204 and 27 73 of 2025.
To carry out mandate effectively, Monusco needs predictable and long term financing to carry out its activities with regard to humanitarian assistance in accordance with resolution 27 73 of the Security Council, as well as to implement resolution 20 808 of 2025, which extended its mandate by a year, as well as for its deployment in areas where threats against civilians continue to persist.
The DRC expressed the need for Monusco to play a key role in overseeing the cease fire in North and South Kivu, which could require significant financial resources.
Monusco troops are on high alert and are very dedicated to their mandate.
It is important for member states to maintain and support the implementation of Monusco's mandate through their financial contributions, paid in full and on time.
To this end, it's important for restrictions on movement imposed on Monusco in areas controlled by the armed groups to be lifted.
These restrictions seriously hamper logistical operations on the mission and delay crucial interventions by limiting access to conflict zones.
Which civilians need, including civilians urgent need for protection, and they also complicate cooperation in the field with the DRC's armed forces.
Lifting these barriers would improve Moscus operational effectiveness, guaranteeing that peace operations would not be hindered by artificially imposed constraints, but rather be optimized to meet the needs of the populations most affected by the conflict.
Therefore, strengthening partnerships is crucial.
The DRC reaffirms its support for implementing Resolution 27 19 on African peacekeeping operations to step up complementarity between the UN and the African Union.
With regard to the security situation in the South and North Kivu, the DRC calls on member states to continue their support for the mandate of Monusco both by expanding contingent as well as through adequate financial resources, reducing the financing of UN peacekeeping operations, has led to concerns on the impact this could have on the situation in the DRC, especially because the UN peacekeepers deployed to the end in the region play an essential role in protecting civilian populations, providing humanitarian assistance, and combating armed groups.
Situation could lead to a reduction in the number of blue helmets or reduction in their operational capacity.
This could also have repercussions for the regions stability as a whole, because armed groups could benefit from a weakened Monusco presence to step up their activities.
Civilian populations which depend on the protection of Monusco could also be affected.
In closing, the DRC expresses its gratitude for the support provided by member states to Monusco's budget in order to make the missions mandate more effective on the ground.
Thank you, Madam Chair.
Yeah.
I thank you.
If there are no further comments, the committee has thus concluded the general discussion on this item.
Informal consultations on this question will be coordinated by Mr.
Jeb Fran Bhina of Cameron.
The meeting is adjourned.