Following the United States of America’s removal from 66 international organisations, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, has expressed regret over the decision by the United States to withdraw from several United Nations entities, pointing out that assessed financial contributions to the organisation are a legal obligation for all member states.
According to a statement issued by UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric on Thursday, January 8, 2026, the Secretary-General expressed regret over the White House’s announcement regarding the decision.
The statement stated, “The Secretary-General regrets the announcement by the White House regarding the United States’ decision to withdraw from several United Nations entities”, emphasised that funding commitments approved by the General Assembly are binding under international law.
“As we have consistently underscored, assessed contributions to the United Nations regular budget and peacekeeping budget, as approved by the General Assembly, are a legal obligation under the UN Charter for all Member States, including the United States,” the statement added.
Guterres also said the organisation would continue to function despite the decision, noting that UN agencies would press ahead with their responsibilities.
“All United Nations entities will go on with the implementation of their mandates as given by Member States. The United Nations has a responsibility to deliver for those who depend on us. We will continue to carry out our mandates with determination,” he said.
The same position was echoed on the UN’s official X page, which stated, “António Guterres regrets the announcement regarding the United States’ decision to withdraw from a number of United Nations entities. The UN has a responsibility to deliver for those who depend on us. We will continue to carry out our mandates with determination.”
