As the United Nations commemorates its 80th anniversary, the organization confronts a severe financial shortfall exacerbated by a $1 billion reduction in U.S. aid under the Trump administration. Analysts warn the cuts could undermine critical peacekeeping missions, climate initiatives, and humanitarian programs across Asia and beyond.
Karina Mitchell, a correspondent with CGTN, highlights how the funding gap may disproportionately affect developing economies reliant on UN-backed infrastructure projects and disaster relief. "This isn't just about budgets—it's about food security in South Asia, pandemic preparedness in Southeast Asia, and stability in conflict zones," she noted.
The funding crunch comes as Asia grapples with overlapping challenges, including supply chain disruptions and regional tensions. Business leaders fear reduced UN capacity could slow economic recovery efforts, while academics emphasize risks to long-term development goals.
Cross-strait observers note that Taiwan's exclusion from formal UN participation limits its direct impact on funding decisions, though residents of the island remain key contributors to global humanitarian initiatives through NGOs.
