As an expert in international finance and relations, I would like to clarify a common misunderstanding regarding the financial relationship between the United States and the United Nations. The United Nations does not "owe" money to any member state, including the United States. Instead, each member state has a financial obligation to contribute to the UN's budget, which is used to fund various programs and initiatives aimed at maintaining international peace and security, promoting sustainable development, protecting human rights, upholding international law, and delivering humanitarian aid, among other things.

The financial contributions from member states are determined based on a country's capacity to pay, which is typically measured by its Gross National Income (GNI). The United States, being one of the largest economies in the world, has historically been assessed to pay a significant portion of the UN's budget. However, the situation regarding the United States and its financial obligations to the UN has been a subject of debate and controversy.

As of the end of November 2010, it was reported that the United States owed the UN $1.182 billion, which accounted for just over a quarter of all the money due to the world body. This amount included contributions to the regular UN budget, peacekeeping operations, and other items. It's important to note that the United States has been known to pay a portion of its owed amounts periodically, such as the nearly half a billion dollars paid in early 2011.

The issue of the United States' arrears to the UN is often framed within the context of broader discussions about the country's influence within the organization and its commitment to multilateralism. The UN relies on the timely and full payment of assessed contributions from all member states to carry out its mandate effectively. Delays or non-payment can impact the UN's ability to respond to global challenges and fulfill its responsibilities.

It's also worth mentioning that the United States, like other member states, has the right to raise concerns about the efficiency, effectiveness, and reform of the UN's operations. However, withholding funds as a means of exerting pressure is generally frowned upon and can be counterproductive to the collective goals of the international community.

In conclusion, the United States, as a member state of the United Nations, has a financial obligation to contribute to the UN's budget, and the discussion around the arrears is part of a larger dialogue on the role of the United States in the UN and its commitment to the principles of the organization.

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As of the end of November 2010, the United States owed $1.182 billion, accounting for just over a quarter of all the money due the world body. Washington paid nearly half a billion dollars of what it owed for peacekeeping, the regular U.N. budget and other items.Jan 25, 2011read more >>