Kathmandu. United Nations peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix on Tuesday warned that budget cuts were posing a serious challenge to the ‘indispensable’ role played by peacekeepers around the world.

He said the direct impact of this is being seen in the form of a reduction in troop numbers. “We have no choice but to implement these cuts. This situation has arisen because some member states have not paid partially,” Lacroix told a meeting of representatives of 32 UN troop-contributing countries in New Delhi.

He said the international community is now divided, and as a result, the mood for a collective response to global crises is weakening. UN officials reported earlier this month that the peacekeeping budget has been cut by 16-17 percent. This is mainly due to cuts in US aid.

This will result in a 25 percent reduction in troops in nine of the 11 peacekeeping missions currently operating. The US was expected to contribute about $1.3 billion out of the $5.4 billion budget for the 2025-2026 peacekeeping operations, but has now said it will provide only about half that amount, or $682 million.

It also includes $85 million for a new international anti-gang mission in Haiti, which was not in the original budget. US President Donald Trump has long been pushing for cuts to foreign aid, saying international organizations have taken advantage of the US.

“We know that peacekeepers make the difference between life and death for hundreds of thousands of civilians. They monitor ceasefires, help build national capacity and play a crucial role in peacekeeping. Their role is truly indispensable,” said Lacroix, noting that peacekeeping missions have contributed greatly to maintaining stability in many countries for decades. “The overall security landscape around the world is deteriorating as budgets are being cut. We are facing new challenges such as the impact of climate change, global terrorism and the negative aspects of digital technology.”

The meeting was hosted by India. India is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions. Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi also said that the lack of funds would require a redefinition of peacekeeping missions, saying, “Limited budgets for UN missions will now become a permanent reality. Therefore, future missions will have fewer boots on the ground and more reliance on technology and innovation.” (AFP)