UN Aid Chief Replacement Delay Sparks Criticism

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres faces criticism for not naming a permanent replacement for the departing aid chief amidst record global needs. The current plan is to appoint Joyce Msuya from Tanzania as acting chief, but concerns arise over the lack of a permanent successor affecting the authority and effectiveness in humanitarian crises. The delay in appointing a replacement highlights challenges within the U.N. system, where key roles are divided among permanent Security Council members. The underfunding of the $48.7 billion budget, with less than 20% funded, further complicates humanitarian efforts, leading to tough decisions on aid distribution and program cutbacks.