Pakistan has reaffirmed its strong and continued commitment to United Nations peacekeeping operations at a time when the global body is facing a serious financial crisis that threatens its operational stability.
Speaking at the opening session of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations at the United Nations headquarters, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, highlighted the growing liquidity crisis affecting peacekeeping missions worldwide. He emphasized that the worsening financial situation is directly impacting the performance, efficiency, and mandate delivery of peace operations across multiple regions.
According to Pakistan’s envoy, funding shortages are creating operational constraints that limit the ability of missions to protect civilians, ensure rapid deployment, and maintain the safety and security of peacekeepers. He stressed that peacekeeping remains one of the most vital instruments for maintaining international peace and security, especially in conflict-prone areas.
The statement comes amid serious warnings from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who recently cautioned that the United Nations could face an “imminent financial collapse” if member states fail to pay their assessed contributions in full and on time. The Secretary-General underlined that the financial sustainability of the organization depends on collective responsibility and timely payments by member nations.
By the end of 2025, unpaid dues reportedly reached a record $1.57 billion, placing enormous pressure on peacekeeping missions and humanitarian programmes globally. The financial shortfall has also exposed structural challenges within the UN’s budgeting system, where unspent funds must be returned to member states even when liquidity remains strained.
Pakistan reiterated that effective multilateral cooperation is essential to ensure that peacekeeping missions remain adequately funded and operationally capable. The country has long been one of the largest troop-contributing nations to UN peacekeeping operations, demonstrating its commitment to global stability and conflict resolution.
Diplomatic observers note that sustainable funding is critical not only for maintaining ongoing missions but also for ensuring future peacekeeping efforts can respond effectively to emerging global crises. The evolving geopolitical landscape, increasing regional conflicts, and humanitarian challenges further underline the need for stable financial backing.
As the international community navigates growing political and economic pressures, the issue of UN funding is expected to remain central in diplomatic discussions. Pakistan’s reaffirmation of support reflects its continued engagement in multilateral frameworks aimed at promoting peace, security, and global cooperation.
