Deputy Secretary-General Addresses Critical Stakes in Recent Statement

UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed addressed the opening of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Segment on Operational Activities for Development, emphasizing the critical role of the United Nations in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She highlighted the importance of collaboration among over 38 UN agencies and the need for Member States to deepen their engagement in this vital segment. Mohammed underscored the urgency of accelerating efforts to meet the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly in light of the recent adoption of the 2024 Quadrennial Comprehensive Policy Review.

Significance of the Operational Activities for Development Segment

The Operational Activities for Development segment of ECOSOC serves as a crucial platform for reviewing the UN’s effectiveness in supporting countries to achieve the SDGs. This segment allows Member States to hold the UN development system accountable for its results and share valuable lessons learned. Mohammed noted that the segment is essential for ensuring that resident coordinators and UN country teams are equipped to provide coherent support to nations in need. The focus is on making the development system more strategic, efficient, and results-oriented, which is vital for addressing the immediate and long-term needs of countries.

During her remarks, Mohammed expressed gratitude to the Economic and Social Council Bureau for its leadership and welcomed youth representative Chelsea Antwan, emphasizing the importance of youth voices in these discussions. The segment is seen as a pivotal moment for the UN, as it seeks to strengthen coordination and transparency across the system while responding to the challenges posed by global crises.

Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals

Mohammed highlighted the recent adoption of the 2024 Quadrennial Comprehensive Policy Review, which sets the strategic direction for the UN development system over the next four years. This landmark resolution reflects a collective ambition to build upon the progress made since the 2018 repositioning of the development system. It reaffirms the central role of sustainable development and the urgency of accelerating action to meet the SDGs.

Member States have provided critical guidance to enhance coordination and accountability within the UN system. Mohammed reiterated the importance of quality funding and financing as enablers of a unified country team. She emphasized that the six transformative pathways identified are essential for enabling effective responses to various challenges, including food systems, energy access, digital connectivity, and climate change.

Future Opportunities for Multilateral Engagement

Looking ahead, Mohammed outlined several upcoming opportunities for the international community to enhance multilateral ambition. The Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development aims to unlock large-scale investments for the SDGs and reform the international financial architecture to better address global crises. Additionally, discussions at the Food Systems Stocktake +4 will focus on transforming food systems through strategic investments.

The World Social Summit will seek to strengthen the three pillars of social development as articulated in the SDGs. Mohammed also mentioned the Thirtieth Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 30), where efforts will be made to mobilize significant climate finance by 2035. These initiatives reflect a commitment to addressing pressing global challenges and ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of sustainable development.

Call for Engagement and Collaboration

In her closing remarks, Mohammed encouraged Member States to actively engage in the discussions throughout the week. She emphasized the importance of listening to concerns, reflections, and ideas from all participants. The recent meeting of resident coordinators in Africa highlighted the progress made, but also the heightened expectations in light of ongoing crises. Mohammed expressed confidence in the tools and frameworks available to navigate these challenges and reiterated the UN’s determination to work collaboratively towards achieving the 2030 Agenda.

As the UN continues its efforts to fulfill its promise for people and the planet, the commitment to sustainable development remains paramount. The upcoming discussions and initiatives will play a crucial role in shaping a safer, more sustainable, and prosperous world for all.

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