From these factors, the impact of the funding shortage is already being felt in operational areas, such as:
- Afghanistan: One of the countries with the world’s highest maternal mortality rates. UN Women has had to close maternal and child clinics, affecting life-saving care for mothers.
- Sudan: The World Food Programme (WFP) has had to reduce food rations for conflict-displaced refugees due to funding shortages.
If the budget shortfall is not resolved, the UN has warned that programmes could be affected as follows:
- Peacekeeping missions: Potential constraints on compensation payments to troops, logistical support, and the continued operation of missions in conflict zones.
- Humanitarian assistance: Agencies such as the WFP…