WO=MEN is a co‑signatory of Joint Feminist Statement on the financial stability of the UN

WO=MEN is one of more than 1,200 signatories from 123 countries that have endorsed the Joint Feminist Statement issued by the Women’s Major Group, calling for the protection of the United Nations’ financial stability.   

 

The statement raises concern about the growing trend in which several powerful Member States fail to meet, or deliberately delay, their financial obligations to the UN. This use of political pressure places the multilateral system under severe strain at a time when the world is facing serious and interconnected crises, from climate change to rising inequality and conflict.   

 

According to the signatories, strategically withholding funds not only undermines the UN’s day‑to‑day functioning, but also weakens the international norms that safeguard human rights, gender equality and democratic accountability. It sets a dangerous precedent in which financial coercion is used to influence global agreements and institutions.   

 

The call to all Member States is clear: fulfill financial obligations in full and on time, end the use of non‑payment as a political bargaining tool, and protect the integrity of the UN system.   

 

The statement also stresses that ongoing UN reform processes must be shielded from financial manipulation or influence by authoritarian or profit‑driven interests. 

 

As WO=MEN, we stand firmly behind this message. A strong and well‑functioning multilateral system, such as the United Nations, is essential for addressing global challenges and for safeguarding the rights and safety of people worldwide, particularly those in vulnerable positions.   

 

The full statement can be read here.