The United Nations (UN) is funded by its member states through compulsory and voluntary contributions. The size of each state’s compulsory contribution depends mainly on its economic strength, though its state of development and debt situation are also taken into account.
 
Switzerland’s compulsory contribution is currently equal to 1.13% of the UN budget. This rate applies on an annual basis from 2010 to 2012. Switzerland thus ranks 16th in the list of contributors.
 
Over and above their compulsory contributions, member states also make voluntary contributions to:

• the Specialized Agencies of the UN System such as the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the World Health Organization (WHO)
• UN Programmes and Funds such as the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF)