OSCE Approves New Budget After 5-Year Deadlock

0:00What's up? This is Global News Today, bringing you the fastest global updates right now. The organization for security and cooperation in Europe, a group of 57 nations from East and West finally approved a new budget after five. Years of deadlock. The United States pushed hard for deep cuts to refocus the group on its main tasks. For years, the Vienna-based organization has struggled with disagreements, especially from Russia, which claimed it was too influenced by the West. Last year, the U.S. even threatened to leave unless the budget dropped by more than 10%. The cuts mean the loss of more than 100 jobs out of about 2,000 staff members. Still, the OSCE says the budget keeps operations running while pushing for reforms and steady funding. Diplomats note the reduction totals 15 million euros, or about $17 million, roughly 10% of the previous budget, which had been frozen in place. Switzerland, holding the rotating chair, called it proof that dialogue works even amid

1:01high tensions, helping the group make key decisions together. Support for this episode comes from our sponsor. See the description. It is a pillow that plays your podcast and music without earbuds, built for listening in bed, S-O-L-I-S-O-L-Pillow.com.