United Nations funding

The United Nations (UN) is funded by its member states through compulsory and voluntary contributions. The size of each state’s compulsory contribution depends mainly on its economic strength, though its state of development and debt situation are also taken into account.

Switzerland’s compulsory contribution is currently equal to 1.134% of the UN budget. This rate applies on an annual basis from 2022–2024. It thus ranks 17th on the list of contributors, in terms of the UN's regular budget, and 14th in terms of the peacekeeping operations budget.

Over and above their compulsory contributions, member states also make voluntary contributions to:

  • the Specialized Agencies of the UN System such as the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the World Health Organization (WHO)
  • UN Programmes and Funds such as the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF)

Last update 04.03.2024

Contact

UN Division

Bundesgasse 28
3003 Bern

Phone

+41 58 464 69 22

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