Additional Context: The OHCHR provides technical assistance across the U.N. system regarding human rights. This includes the protection of human rights defenders and journalists from attacks and threats, including online harassment, digital surveillance, and censorship by state and private actors. It also provides guidance on responsible artificial intelligence, safeguarding, and other online human rights issues. With fewer resources, the OHCHR has less operational capability to respond to increasing requests for support.

Devex Researcher Note: The OHCHR faced a $54.5 million regular budget shortfall and received $242 million less in voluntary contributions than requested in 2025. While framed as a multi-country issue with many donors pulling back, the funding gap was driven in large part by reductions in U.S. foreign assistance — historically the largest source of U.N. human rights funding.

Source: OHCHR