Washington, D.C. (June 30, 2010) — The House Appropriations State, Foreign Operations Subcommittee voted today to pay our dues to the United Nations and its 17 peacekeeping operations in the FY2011 State Foreign Operations Appropriations bill. Better World Campaign Executive Director Peter Yeo released the following statement lauding this important step to meeting our obligations to the United Nations:
“When President Obama declared our commitment to reengage with the United Nations, he called on Congress to pay our bills to the UN on time, in full, and without restrictions; and we have begun to see real progress. Just one year ago, Congress voted with bipartisan support to repay our debts and fully meet our commitments to the United Nations. Inclusion of full funding for the UN in the FY’2011 State Foreign Operations Appropriations bill approved today sends a strong signal that America has hit the reset button on U.S. engagement at the UN. Support of our UN commitments is more than an obligation — it’s a smart investment in America’s national security interests and foreign policy goals.
“We are disappointed that the subcommittee cut funding for the overall International Affairs Budget, which represents only one percent of the total federal budget, but will shoulder the majority of cuts the House is expected to make to the President’s overall discretionary budget request. As the appropriations process continues, we will urge House and Senate members to fully fund the UN, UN peacekeeping, and the President’s $58.8 billion International Affairs Budget request.”
About the Better World Campaign
The Better World Campaign works to foster a strong relationship between the U.S. and the UN to promote core American interests and build a more secure, prosperous, and healthy world. The Better World Campaign engages policymakers, the media, and the American public alike to increase awareness of the critical role played by the UN in world affairs and the importance of constructive U.S.-UN relations.
Media Contact:
info_bwc@unfoundation.org
