Special Programmes describe a series of activities funded from a range of distinct trust funds. These activities, while mandated, need not necessarily be strictly statutory. Separate financial statements are prepared for each fund or for a group of funds of the same nature. The Fund is utilized to replenish the Emergency Fund and meet essential payments for projects, pending receipt of contributions pledged. It also includes a Programme Reserve.
Payments reflect claims processed during the year to cover field staff medical costs.
The financial period for the accounts is annual and the accounts reflect financial information for the current calendar year and comparative figures for the preceding year. Income, expenditure, assets and liabilities are recognized on the accrual basis of accounting. In field offices, accounts may be maintained in the national currency of the country concerned. Field office account transactions are translated into dollars using the United Nations operational rates of exchange, as established by the United Nations Controller, in effect at the date of the transaction. At the balance sheet date, all asset and liability balances are adjusted to reflect the United Nations operational rate of exchange in effect as at 31 December.