UN Adopts Action Plan for Landlocked Nations

The United Nations General Assembly has taken a significant step towards supporting landlocked developing countries. On December 24, 2024, the Assembly adopted a resolution that outlines the โProgramme of Action for Landlocked Developing Countries for the Decade 2024โ2034.โ This program aims to diversify economies, promote trade, create jobs, and enhance climate resilience over the next ten years. The Assembly has called upon all stakeholders to commit to implementing this vital action plan.
Focus on Sustainable Development Goals
The newly adopted Programme of Action emphasizes the urgency of expediting action on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It calls for increased investment from various sources, including international cooperation. The resolution highlights the need to harmonize skills development and training programs at both national and regional levels. This approach aims to equip the workforce in landlocked developing countries with the necessary skills to thrive in a rapidly changing global economy.
Member States are urged to significantly increase their investments in research and development. They are also encouraged to build accessible, reliable, and affordable digital infrastructure. The Assembly has set an ambitious goal to double the contribution of manufacturing value added to the gross domestic product (GDP) of landlocked developing countries by 2034. This commitment reflects a broader strategy to strengthen trade and investment policies, aligning them with industrial policy objectives.
Philรฉmon Yang, the Assembly President from Cameroon, emphasized the importance of this initiative. He stated that the 570 million people living in landlocked developing countries deserve better opportunities. He acknowledged the unique challenges these nations face, including trade barriers and limited connectivity. Recent global shocks, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and rising prices, have only exacerbated their vulnerabilities. The Assembly has pledged to monitor the implementation of this action program closely.
Addressing Economic and Environmental Challenges
Rabab Fatima, Secretary-General of the third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, highlighted the profound challenges these nations face. The new Programme of Action proposes the establishment of regional agricultural hubs. These hubs aim to transform the agricultural sector and promote sustainable development. Fatima pointed out that internet usage in landlocked countries is significantly below the global average, stressing the need to bridge the gender gap in digital access.
Trade costs for landlocked developing countries are approximately 40 percent higher than for coastal states. This disparity hampers their economic growth and integration into global markets. Furthermore, climate finance remains grossly insufficient for these nations. The Programme of Action emphasizes the need for development partners to honor their official development assistance (ODA) commitments. This financial support is crucial for addressing the structural barriers that hinder progress.
Diego Pary Rodrรญguez, Chair of the Group of Landlocked Developing Countries, underscored the importance of this action plan. He noted that many landlocked nations have already taken steps to diversify their economies. However, the Programme of Action has the potential to foster new alliances that provide essential economic, political, and technological tools. These resources can help overcome existing barriers and enhance participation in global trade.
Strengthening UN Cooperation with Portuguese-Speaking Nations
In addition to the focus on landlocked developing countries, the General Assembly adopted a resolution titled โCooperation between the United Nations and the Community of Portuguese-speaking Countries.โ This resolution emphasizes the importance of strengthening collaboration between the UN and specialized agencies. The goal is to improve coordination in peacebuilding and sustaining peace initiatives.
The Assembly recognizes that effective partnerships are essential for addressing global challenges. By enhancing cooperation with the Community of Portuguese-speaking Countries, the UN aims to leverage shared resources and expertise. This collaboration can lead to more effective solutions for peace and development issues faced by member states.
Furthermore, the resolution highlights the need for ongoing dialogue and cooperation among relevant organizations. By fostering these relationships, the UN can better support member states in achieving their development goals. This approach aligns with the broader mission of the UN to promote peace, security, and sustainable development worldwide.
Administrative Updates and Financial Contributions
In other matters, the General Assembly appointed Alexandra Arias from the Dominican Republic as a member of the Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions (ACABQ). Her term will begin on January 31 and end on December 31. Arias replaces Olivio Fermรญn, who resigned from the position.
The Assembly also acknowledged that Antigua and Barbuda has made the necessary payments to reduce its arrears in assessed contributions to the United Nations. This development is significant as it allows the country to comply with Article 19 of the UN Charter. Article 19 states that a member state may lose its voting rights if it fails to pay its financial contributions. By addressing its financial obligations, Antigua and Barbuda can continue to participate fully in UN activities.
Overall, the recent actions taken by the General Assembly reflect a commitment to supporting landlocked developing countries and enhancing international cooperation. These initiatives aim to create a more equitable and sustainable global community.
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