Since the establishment of the United Nations, the United States has been its largest individual contributor, covering a significant portion of the organization's budget. Currently, the U.S. contributes approximately 22 percent of the UN's regular biennial budget, which is set at $2.54 billion. This shows a slight decrease from the nearly 25 percent contribution rate prior to 1999.

This prominent financial role highlights the U.S.'s vital involvement in the UN's operations and its influence in global governance. The contributions underscore America's commitment to international cooperation, despite the changing dynamics of global politics discussed in Niall Ferguson's book, Colossus.