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100 Reflections that Crafted Geneva International

Norm-setting in Geneva also refers to technical norms such as those
adopted by the Economic Commission for Europe and although this activity
goes somewhat unnoticed in the media, it is one that has perhaps the greatest
impact on the everyday life of millions of citizens.

III. THE REFORM OF THE UNITED NATIONS AND ITS IMPACT
ON UNOG

The comprehensive reform of the United Nations has been the declared
priority of the Secretary-General, ever since he took office in January 1997 and
he will put forward his proposals on 16 July.

The aim of the reform is to restore confidence in the United Nations and
to prepare the Organization for the larger roles it will be expected to play in the
next century. The emphasis is thus on enhancing the efficiency of the
Organization. In the words of the Secretary-General, reform is synonymous of
revitalization, reinvigoration and rejuvenation.

The reform of the United Nations follows a two-track plan. The first Track
concerns administrative and managerial changes that are within the authority
of the Secretary-General. They will be the subject of the 16 July announce-
ment. The second Track refers to long term reforms involving action from
Member States of the United Nations.

Administrative and managerial reforms involve the consolidation of certain
UN Services, the restructuring of the Department of Public Information, and
measures of reduction in budget endowment, staffing levels, administrative
costs, and volume of documentation. Regarding consolidation, three economic
and social Departments have been brought together as one; and further
consolidation should take part in the areas of Administration, Finances,
Personnel and Procurement.

Reforms considered under Track II involve such substantive matters as the
reform of the Security Council and in particular of its membership, so as to
make this body more democratic and representative. It also entails proposals
aimed at rationalizing the work methods of the General Assembly, such as
reducing the number of items on its agenda or abolishing various subsidiary
bodies which have outlived their usefulness. Sensitive matters such as the
revision of the scale of assessments, which determines the percentage of
contribution of each Member State to the regular budget of the UN and to the
peace-keeping budget will also need to be reviewed under Track II of the
reform process.

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