India warns of UN cash strain as unpaid dues surge in 2026

During the 81st Main Session of the UN Fifth Committee, India’s Surendra Adhana warned that the organization’s liquidity in 2026 was under strain due to collection uncertainties and a low cash reserve. He pointed out that regular-budget arrears have decreased to $1.46 billion from $1.87 billion, yet more than 90% of that amount is owed by a single member state. In the peacekeeping arena, unpaid assessments rose to $4.1 billion, with about 88% of the debt coming from two contributors, the United States and China.

India highlighted that 141 member states had settled their dues by the end of September, up from 136 the previous year, and that India itself paid $35.18 million in February, joining 55 nations that cleared their bills within the 30-day deadline. He urged all capable members to fulfill their obligations promptly to preserve the UN’s financial health.