Perks for UN senior staff under scrutiny as they escape current belt-tightening measures

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres is leading a reform effort through his UN80 Initiative, directing staff to slash budgets ahead of the 2026 budgetary vote. This comes at a time when the Trump administration has sought to save money using DOGE. Guterres has warned about potential cuts to U.S. spending at the U.N., stating that reducing funding could have negative impacts on global health, safety, and prosperity.

Despite the push for budget cuts, senior-level U.N. staff have not seen reductions in their benefits. According to a diplomatic source, these high-ranking officials enjoy significant perks that rival those of investment bankers. The source revealed that the 2026 budget proposal does not touch the benefits of professional- and director-level U.N. staff, including the secretary-general.

One of the major perks for U.N. professional staff is the salary multiplier, which can range from 16% to 86.8% based on the duty station. In addition to a generous salary, staff may receive housing allowances, tax exemptions, and allowances for dependents. U.N. employees also have access to the U.N. joint staff pension fund, healthcare benefits, and travel allowances.

For staff who change duty stations, the U.N. offers mobility incentives, hardship allowances, and relocation benefits. Terminated employees may receive separation payments and repatriation grants, depending on the circumstances of their departure. The U.N. also provides danger pay to staff in high-risk duty stations.

While Guterres’ spokesperson refuted claims that U.N. employee compensation is comparable to that of investment bankers, he acknowledged that the 2026 budget proposal does not include cuts to senior personnel or benefits. The International Civil Service Commission is conducting a review of the compensation package for international staff, with results expected in 2026.

As the U.N. continues its reform efforts, the focus remains on identifying efficiencies and reducing costs without compromising the organization’s mission. The revised budget proposal will be presented to the General Assembly for deliberation later this year. The U.N. is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in its financial management to uphold its mandate of promoting peace, security, and development worldwide.