On Thursday, Guterres told the General Assembly that reform is required because “Inaction in the face of geopolitical turmoil would worsen human suffering..”
Launched in March 2025, the initiative seeks to ensure that “every mandate, dollar and decision” creates greater impact for people and the planet, in a time of increasing demands and limited resources.
The UN chief described the project as “a paradigm shift in the way the UN system organizes its work and collaborates for greater impact” and stated that the project has now entered a new critical phase of decision-making and implementation.
Work already underway
A progress update published on Tuesday highlights steps that have been taken to improve efficiency, review how mandates are implemented and explore changes to the system’s internal structure, including the possible merger of some UN bodies.
Work is already underway to streamline operations within and outside the United Nations Secretariat, including measures to reduce duplication and improve coordination. These efforts are part of a broader push to modernize the way the organization operates.
The initiative also aims to simplify administrative processes and strengthen services across the United Nations system, focusing on providing faster and more cost-effective support to Member States.
Strengthening mandates and accountability
Another key pillar of the reform effort focuses on how mandates (the tasks assigned by Member States) are designed, implemented and reviewed.
The report highlights ongoing work with national governments to improve transparency, reduce reporting burdens and better align mandates with resources and results.
With tens of thousands of mandates guiding the operation of the UN, the review process aims to ensure that they remain relevant, consistent and focused on achieving measurable results.
Member States are essential for next steps
Proposals for changes to the UN structure include closer alignment between departments and agencies, and closer collaboration between entities related to peace and security, development and human rights.
The initiative has identified the need for fewer silos and more integrated approaches, along with new tools such as shared data platforms and strengthened coordination mechanisms.
However, decisions about changes to the UN structure rest with member states, which will have the final say on priorities and implementation.
Describing UN80 as a “work in progress”, the Secretary-General has emphasized that sustained commitment is the way to create a more coherent and effective United Nations system.
As the initiative continues to evolve, it is expected that its different strands will come together to form a unified framework that provides more robust and coordinated action.