The 38th floor.

• Position: Excerpts from the Secretary-General's statements on activities of the United Nations - Editorial

The 38th Floor

From Mr. Perez de Cuellar's 1986 Report on the Work of the Organization:

IN 1985, the fortieth anniversary of the United Nations was markedwith a far-reaching rigorous examination of the role the Organization has played during 40 years of epochal change. While opinions differed as to the strengths and weaknesses in the performance of the Organization, there was notable unanimity in acknowledging the continuing validity of the principles of the United Nations Charter and the need to strengthen the United Nations so that it might better meet the needs of the future. The impressive observance of the anniversary had set the stage for a fresh beginning in efforts to overcome stalemates on major issues and in strengthening that structure for international co-operation which is the United Nations. I cautioned, however, that devotion to the principles of the Charter needed to express itself in concrete action and not only in rhetoric.

Regrettably, in marked contrast to sentiments expressed during thefortieth anniversary, 1986 has witnessed the United Nations subjected to a severe crisis challenging its solvency and viability. Precisely at the time when renewed efforts have been called for to strengthen the Organization, its work has been shadowed by financial difficulties resulting primarily from the failure of Member States to meet obligations flowing from the Charter. It is essential to lift this cloud so that the United Nations can, both now and in the longer term, be that strong constructive force in world affairs that is vitally needed in our increasingly interdependent world. The strengthening and revitalization of the present structure of multilateral institution is critical to the resolution of problems confronting the international community relating to peace, security and development. To ignore this necessity is to imperil the future prospects of a better world.

While the underlying causes of the budgetary problem of the UnitedNations are political, the structural and administrative efficiency of the United Nations is also unquestionably an important factor . . . There is need for improved management of the Secretariat at all levels. A principal task for the Secretary-General in the coming years will be to assure that management skills are given high priority in recruitment and in training . . . Member STates, for their part, will need to act to rationalize the intergovernmental machinery and the application of priorities...