United Nations in India

India is critical in determining the success of the SDGs, globally. At the UN Sustainable Development Summit in 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted, “Sustainable development of one-sixth of humanity will be of great consequence to the world and our beautiful planet. It will be a world of fewer challenges and greater hope; and, more confident of its success”. NITI Aayog, the Government of India’s premier think tank, has been entrusted with the task of coordinating the SDGs, mapping schemes related to the SDGs and their targets, and identifying lead and supporting ministries for each target. In addition, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has been leading discussions for developing national indicators for the SDGs. State governments are key to India’s progress on the SDGs as they are best placed to ‘put people first’ and to ensuring that ‘no one is left behind’. The UN Country Team in India supports NITI Aayog, Union ministries and state governments in their efforts to address the interconnectedness of the goals, to ensure that no one is left behind and to advocate for adequate financing to achieve the SDGs.

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Speech

02 January 2025

Celebrating the dynamic UN-India partnership!

As we step into the New Year, it is a moment to both reflect and look forward. From breakthroughs in public health and food security to major advances in poverty reduction, technology and climate action, 2024 has proven to be another transformative year in India – as it has been for us at the United Nations in India, all 26 entities partnering with government, civil society and business across every State and Union Territory, as well as with our international development partners. Fresh off hosting the G20 presidency last year, India reinforced its role as a leading ‘voice of the Global South,’ driving international discourse on climate justice, food security and health equity among other issues central to the Sustainable Development Goals. In an era of deep political polarization and tensions worldwide, it also demonstrated the strength and resilience of its democracy, the world’s largest, with more than 640 million people voting in the national election.   In parallel, India hosted major UN gatherings on key multilateral issues old and new. At the 2024 ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly, held in New Delhi, new global agreements were reached on critical issues such as artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability and digital governance. With a strong focus on digital public infrastructure and emergency communications, India is at the forefront of setting digital standards that will impact the world for years to come.
  The country’s cultural heritage shone brightly on the global stage as India played host to the annual UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting for the first time. Notably, Assam’s moidams — the Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty — became India’s 43rd site on the World Heritage List.

  On the ground, too, 2024 saw significant innovations across the country tackling India’s most pressing challenges with the UN proud to play a role. For example, Odisha launched a new 24-hour ‘Grain ATM’, a collaboration between WFP and the State Government. This technological advancement streamlines the public distribution system, reducing waiting times and ensuring that the most vulnerable have greater food security. UN Women led collective action on gender equality, globally the ‘unfinished business of our time’ in the words of the UN Secretary-General, while ILO convened the system to help unleash India’s unequalled potential demographic dividend.

Another major milestone was reached with India formally declaring the end of trachoma as a public health problem, overcoming one of the leading global causes of blindness. By implementing the WHO SAFE strategy — targeting treatment, prevention, and hygiene — India dramatically reduced infection rates. This success underscores the power of coordinated efforts between government, health-care workers, and international partners.  India’s digital public infrastructure continues to set global benchmarks. The U-WIN platform, supported by UNDP, has been instrumental in modernizing vaccine distribution, ensuring accessibility and equity in immunization. This leap builds on previous successes like eVIN and CoWIN, and links with work of WHO and UNICEF, strengthening India’s ability to respond to public health challenges both now and in the future.


This year saw the update and release of the India’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (2024-2030) supported by UNDP. This strategic plan aims to set nature on a recovery trajectory by embracing a 'whole-of-government' and 'whole-of-society' approach.
The UN family in India also celebrated several milestones in 2024. UNICEF marked 75 years of programming in the country to improve the health, safety and rights of children, while UNFPA commemorated 50 years, having contributed significantly to advancing sexual and reproductive health, especially for women and girls.Inclusion remained a central theme of the UN’s work in India this year. A joint non-discrimination statement on the employment of persons with disabilities was signed by all 26 UN agencies operating in the country.We formed a Multilateral Coordination Group with the government to bring together UN agencies, tailor programs for the welfare of persons with disabilities, and adapt global best practices to the Indian context.

As we approach the UN’s 80th anniversary next year, the momentum gained this past year will be crucial in advancing the initiatives outlined in the Pact for the Future that was adopted by all UN Member States, including India, at UN Headquarters in September. This landmark agreement, along with its key annexes — the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations — reflects a global commitment to building a peaceful, sustainable, and inclusive future, and to making the UN more effective and relevant for dealing with tomorrow’s challenges. India’s leadership in adopting and advancing these resolutions, particularly in strengthening South-South cooperation and prioritizing the voices of youth, will be vital in shaping the future.
Across six outcome groups of the Cooperation Framework, the UN in India has consistently driven impactful results through collective action and partnerships. Just a few of the highlights include:Health and well-being: Through the U-WIN platform, over 17 million pregnant women and 59 million children have been digitally registered, and more than 264 million vaccine doses have been tracked.Nutrition and food security: More than 12.3 million Indians, including children and breastfeeding mothers, received nutritious fortified foods.Quality education: We helped train 18,000 teachers as Health and Wellness Ambassadors across 26,000 schools spanning 33 districts.Economic growth and decent work: Conducted health and safety training to improve the working conditions at nearly 300 tea-growing estates.Environment, climate, WASH, and resilience: 2.9 million tons of CO2 emissions reduced through energy conservation and climate-friendly initiatives Empowering people, communities, and institutions: Supported the government in expanding gender-responsive budgeting in six states, leading to increased funding for women’s empowerment and gender equality.One of the standout moments of 2024 was when Major Radhika Sen from the Indian Army, serving as an Indian peacekeeper in the Democratic Republic of Congo, received this year’s UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award.
Additionally, the fourth edition of the SDG India Index produced by NITI Aayog with support from the UN showed India’s score rising to 71 out of 100, up from 66 in the previous edition.As we enter 2025, the race to achieve the SDGs enters a critical phase. With only half of the Decade of Action left, the urgency is unmistakable. This year has demonstrated the power of purpose and partnerships. From safeguarding cultural heritage to pioneering advancements in technology, India is showing how nations can drive sustainable growth while addressing global challenges.  The United Nations, a humble partner working alongside India in this journey, remains committed to ensuring that progress benefits everyone. As I could not have begun to fully cover here the wide range of collaborations in which the UNCT is engaged, please have a look at our monthly newsletters on our website, or the annual report which will be issued within the first quarter of 2025, for more exhaustive stories of our work. The path ahead is steep, but with shared resolve, a more equitable and sustainable future is within reach. India is uniquely positioned among nations to accelerate development results at a scale and pace sufficient to give the global SDG push a vital boost, and with it optimism towards 2030.On behalf of the UN in India family, I am pleased to share our deep appreciation for your partnership in the year that was, and in anticipation of the important collective path ahead.Dhanyavaad!Shombi Sharp
United Nations Resident Coordinator, India

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15 January 2025

WMO joins IMD’s 150th celebration

India recorded its hottest year on record in 2024, with extreme heat impacting human health, agriculture, water resources, and energy. Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), highlighted these challenges during the 150th anniversary celebrations of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on 14 January. The event, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister of Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh, celebrated IMD’s achievements and introduced Vision-2047, aimed at making India a climate-resilient nation by the time it celebrates 100 years of independence.“We aim to modernise meteorology and reduce weather-related fatalities,” Modi said. “This Vision will contribute to a sustainable future.”Saulo praised IMD’s role in disaster risk reduction and its support to sectors such as agriculture, water resource management, and public health.“IMD’s legacy has significantly enhanced India’s resilience and contributed to global efforts,” she said.India, a founding member of WMO since 1950, has been represented on its Executive Board for over 60 years, longer than any other country in the Asia-Pacific region. IMD’s role in severe weather forecasting, flash flood warnings, and seasonal climate outlooks was also acknowledged. “Accurate forecasts and coordinated disaster management have saved countless lives,” Saulo remarked, noting that IMD’s commitment to early warning systems aligns with WMO’s Early Warnings for All campaign to safeguard people from extreme weather worldwide.

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16 October 2024

Global conference begins on future of digital tech standards

Thousands of tech experts, industry leaders, policymakers, researchers and government officials have gathered in New Delhi for a global United Nations-run conference on the future of technology standards. The World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) formally opened on 15 October in the capital’s Bharat Mandapam venue with an opening ceremony featuring Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. WTSA, taking place in the Asia-Pacific region for the first time, runs until 24 October. It is being held alongside the India Mobile Congress. Held every four years, WTSA sets out priorities for experts around the world who work year-round to develop the standards established by the UN’s International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The assembly’s opening heard calls for universal connectivity, the need for ethical artificial intelligence (AI) and how digital inclusion can make a meaningful difference to people’s lives.

In his remarks, Mr. Modi stressed that “security, dignity and equity” are the principles on which discussions at the assembly and congress should be based.

“Our objective should be that no country, no region and no community should be left behind the in this digital era,” he said.

ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin said the world had a lot to learn from what India has already accomplished with its digital public infrastructure. “This global gathering calls for bold, collective action. In the next 10 days, we can strengthen the role of international standards as the bedrock of global digital governance,” she said.

ITU's standardization work is driven by the contributions and consensus decisions of the agency’s membership, which includes 194 Member States and more than 1,000 member companies, universities, and international and regional organizations.

WTSA reviews the strategy, structure and working methods of ITU's standardization arm every four years. It also approves the mandates and appoints the leadership teams of expert groups for international standardization.

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01 October 2024

Global leaders gather at time of ‘powder keg’

World leaders gathered at UN Headquarters in New York for the General Assembly’s high-level meeting amid warnings that the planet is becoming “a powder keg” on an unsustainable course.UN Secretary-General António Guterres, delivering his annual report on the UN’s work, noted the many raging conflicts around the world, including those in Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan. “Our world is a whirlwind,” he said. “We are in an era of epic transformation, facing challenges unlike any we have ever seen – challenges that demand global solutions.”The Secretary-General added that climate change, poverty and artificial intelligence were among the many other challenges facing the world today.“We are edging towards the unimaginable – a powder keg that risks engulfing the world,” he said.Mr. Guterres emphasized the need to tackle three main drivers of unsustainability in the world: impunity, inequality, and uncertainty.“These worlds of impunity, inequality and uncertainty are connected and colliding,” he said, adding that nevertheless the challenges are solvable if humanity is willing to ensure that “the mechanisms of international problem-solving actually solve problems.” General Assembly President Philémon Yang used his address to underline that the 193-member General Assembly remained “one of the world’s most inclusive, represented, representative and authoritative platforms for global reflection of collective action.”Mr. Yang said that “if we act together,” the world can still overcome its greatest challenges, including the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals by their 2030 target date. Fewer than 17% of the SDG targets are currently on track, just six years before the deadline.He also underscored the threats posed by the climate crisis, which is impacting ecosystems and livelihoods worldwide. “The urgency of our task cannot be overstated.”

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26 June 2025

80 years later, the UN Charter is a ‘living miracle,’ Secretary-General says

In front of a multimedia exhibit at United Nations Headquarters entitled “Reviving the Spirit of San Francisco,” Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed home the UN Charter which was signed in 1945 in the Californian city. The UN Charter "is more than parchment and ink; it is a promise – of peace, dignity and cooperation among nations,” the Secretary-General said.Almost 80 years after it was signed, Mr. Guterres underlined that the Charter was just the beginning, enshrining ideas and principles which the world works to implement on a daily basis.Born from warIn the wake of the Second World War, representatives from almost 50 nations convened in San Francisco to put together an organization committed to the idea of “never again” — never again would a war of this magnitude devastate the world.Instead, the world would choose peace and diplomacy, equality and prosperity.“For a world mired in endless cycles of conflict and human suffering, the Charter and the principles it represented – dialogue, diplomacy, cooperation, and solidarity — was a path to a better, more peaceful, and prosperous future,” said UN General Assembly President Philémon Yang. The Charter was signed on 26 June 1945, almost exactly 80 years ago. However, it did not take effect until 24 October 1945 after the signatories’ legislative bodies had ratified it.The Charter, which is considered an international treaty, is a legal instrument which binds all Member States to the principles and commitments laid out within it. Since its ratification, the UN Charter has paved the way for other landmark international agreements including the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the 2024 Pact for the Future.“The decades since have only proven the Charter’s enduring legacy. It has shaped decades of progress — guided international action on decolonisation, protected human rights and promoted justice and sustainable development,” said Mr. Yang.‘A living miracle’The exhibit contextualizes the Charter as a document from the past which continues to live in our present and will help shape the future.“As we look ahead, we would be wise to remember our past, celebrate our successes and build our future on the foundation of the UN Charter,” Mr. Yang said.Mr. Guterres said that this exhibit is a moment for people to reflect on the artifacts of the UN’s founding — to see the photos, the videos and the documents which have shaped this global organization.He acknowledged that while the world faces new challenges like climate change and technology, in addition to age-old challenges, the UN Charter can be a guiding force if the world is willing to carry the spirit of the Charter and its commitment to peace into the future.“The UN is a living miracle — and the women and men of the United Nations bring this miracle to life every day and everywhere,” the Secretary-General said. Adapted from UN News

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The UN Charter being signed by a delegation at a ceremony held at the Veterans’ War Memorial Building on 26 June 1945.

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24 June 2025

What time is it on the Moon? It’s all relative…

Telling the time on the Moon is more complicated than you might think, but answering the question is becoming more important amid a resurgent interest in lunar exploration. The UN is helping to ensure the Moon is governed in a coordinated and peaceful way, and agreeing on a time zone is a central element of international discussions. Surely, you might think, we can just agree that one Earth time zone can be used for “Moon time”? Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), for example. How hard can it be? Unfortunately, this doesn’t work, for several reasons.Here on Earth, timekeeping is easy to take for granted: we divide our world into 24 time zones, based on longitude and the planet’s rotation, and can tell the time based on the position of the Sun in the sky. But on the Moon, the rules are different: one lunar “day” is approximately 29.5 Earth days long, and the Moon’s equatorial regions can experience up to 14 days of continuous sunlight. On some of the Moon’s tallest mountains, dubbed “peaks of eternal light,” the Sun never sets.On top of that, physicists and science fiction fans will know that time isn’t the same on the Moon as it is on Earth. Place two perfectly synchronised clocks – one on Earth and one on the Moon – and, after just one Earth day, the lunar clock would be ahead by about 56 microseconds. That might not sound like much, but for spacecraft navigation, this tiny discrepancy could be critical.Uniting efforts to standardize lunar timeFor a Moon time zone to work, aspiring lunar actors will need to agree on a common time standard that is reliable, traceable to Earth-based time, and usable by everyone. UNOOSA is helping to lead the charge to make this a reality.In 2024, the UN’s International Committee on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (ICG) established a dedicated working group to focus on lunar positioning, navigation and timing, standardise lunar time and trace it back to UTC that we use on Earth, for the benefit of all future lunar missions.Peace on Earth, peace on MoonCoordinating seamless timekeeping on the Moon is part of a broader UN mission to ensure that lunar activities, whether public, private, scientific, or commercial, are safe, peaceful and sustainable. To that end, UNOOSA convened the first United Nations Conference on Sustainable Lunar Activities in June 2024, gathering heads of space agencies, legal experts, astronauts, companies, and academics from across the globe to discuss common ground, share concerns, and reaffirm the need for transparent, inclusive lunar governance mechanisms. One such mechanism to further international cooperation is the new Action Team on Lunar Activities Consultation (ATLAC), which is designed to help foster dialogue and formulate recommendations on how lunar exploration and activities can be coordinated internationally. ATLAC will work to finalize its workplan for the significant coming years and identify priority topics – such as coordinated lunar timekeeping – to ensure lunar activities proceed in a cooperative and orderly manner.Humanity is entering a new era of lunar exploration featuring a record number of spacefaring nations and organizations that could reshape our relationship with our closest celestial neighbours for generations to come.Member States will be able to work with UNOOSA to preserve the Moon as a domain of global cooperation, guided by the Outer Space Treaty’s core principle that “the exploration and use of outer space, including the Moon, shall be carried out for the benefit and in the interests of all countries.” The UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS)Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1959, COPUOS plays a central role in shaping international space law, addressing emerging issues such as space sustainability and fostering cooperation in the peaceful use and exploration of outer space.The UN Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), which serves as the Committee’s Secretariat and as a capacity-builder, supports this work by helping countries build the legal, institutional, scientific and technical capacities needed to kickstart their national space ecosystems and economies and meaningfully benefit from space.The 68th session of COPUOS convenes on 25 June. Follow the session via UN WebTV here. Adapted from UN News

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20 June 2025

Marking World Refugee Day with Everyday Heroes

As conflict and crisis continue to uproot lives across the globe, new figures from UNHCR show that more than 122 million people are now forcibly displaced—that’s one in every 67 people on the planet.Against this sobering backdrop, the United Nations in India marked World Refugee Day 2025 a day early—with a simple idea at its heart: solidarity isn’t a slogan, it’s something people practise.Under the global theme, “Solidarity With Refugees: Celebrating Unsung Local Heroes”, the event—titled “Heroes Among Us”—was held in New Delhi on 19 June. Organised by UNHCR India, with the support of UNESCO, it recognised the quiet efforts of individuals who support refugees in their everyday lives—teachers, lawyers, landlords, and neighbours who help people start again with dignity.
  Opening the event, Areti Sianni, Chief of Mission for UNHCR India, and Benno Boer, Officer-in-Charge at UNESCO New Delhi called for renewed commitment to refugee protection at a time of unprecedented need.The programme also included a chit-chat style panel discussion, moderated by a refugee from Eritrea. Panelists comprising of refugee leaders, unsung heroes, and friends of UNHCR shared stories of experiences working with refugees —from securing school admissions to helping a refugee walk again. Performance and PerspectiveChildren from the Afghan refugee community opened with a spirited rendition of Salaam Namaste, celebrating connection across cultures. Later, Ms. Madina, a young Afghan poet, delivered a moving original piece that explored identity, exile and the fragile comfort of India’s welcome.A short film, Refugee Resilience, was launched during the event, highlighting how shrinking humanitarian funding is affecting displaced communities, even as needs continue to rise.
  Crafts and CuisinesSurrounding the formal programme, refugee chefs and artisans presented their work at pop-up stalls—offering traditional foods, handmade textiles, jewellery, and crafts. It was a reminder that refugees bring not only need, but skill, creativity and cultural richness to host communities. Participants were also invited to share their reflections on a solidarity message board, and to join the #SolidarityInIndia digital campaign amplifying refugee and host community voices.Closing the event, Shombi Sharp, United Nations Resident Coordinator in India, addressed the refugee community directly with a message of deep solidarity: “To the refugees here, and the refugee community represented in this room—we are with you. You are not alone. You are the heroes of this story. You are not unsung. You are the path ahead.”As the world marks World Refugee Day on 20 June, India’s observance offered a clear reminder: behind every displaced person is not just a story of loss—but of resilience. And beside them are people who choose, quietly and persistently, to stand with them.

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The theme of World Refugee Day 2025 'Solidarity with Refugees' — urges us to move beyond words and take meaningful steps to support those forced to flee.

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11 June 2025

Odisha and UN Habitat partner on urban planning push

In the coastal state of Odisha, where ancient temples meet modern aspirations, a quiet revolution is taking shape. It's not happening in boardrooms or political halls, but in the very DNA of how cities will be built, lived in, and loved by the next generation.Odisha’s urban population is projected to triple over the next decade. The scale of this shift is expected to place significant pressure on housing, infrastructure, public services, and climate resilience — posing both a challenge and an opportunity for the state’s long-term development.To support this transition, UN-Habitat has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Odisha’s Housing and Urban Development Department. The collaboration falls under the newly launched Atal Network for Knowledge, Urbanisation and Reform (ANKUR), aimed at reshaping urban development policy and practice across the state.Launched this May, ANKUR is positioned as a platform for sustainable, inclusive, and innovation-led urban growth, in line with the broader development goals of Viksit Odisha and Viksit Bharat@2047.

As a key knowledge partner, UN-Habitat will provide strategic and technical support to the state government across four focus areas: capacity building, research and knowledge, implementation support, and innovation.
This builds on existing UN-Habitat programmes already active in Odisha, including:Urban RAASTA (Resilient and Accelerated Advancement with Sustainable and Transformative Actions) – a framework for climate-resilient urban planning.Young Gamechangers Initiative (YGI) – empowering urban youth with digital tools, participatory budgeting, and community co-design methods.Circular Economy for Plastic Waste – deploying frontier technologies to upcycle plastics and promote sustainability and livelihoods.The partnership is expected to strengthen urban governance and planning systems in Odisha as it navigates one of the fastest urban transitions in the country.

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Press Release

02 July 2025

World Population Day

On this World Population Day, we celebrate the potential and promise of the largest youth generation ever.They are not only shaping our future; they are demanding one that is just, inclusive, and sustainable. The theme -- "Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world” – reaffirms the promise of the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development: that every person has the right to make informed choices about their lives and futures.Many young people today face economic uncertainty, gender inequality, health challenges, the climate crisis and conflict.Still, they are leading – with courage, conscience and clarity. And they are calling for systems that uphold their rights and support their choices. I urge countries to invest in policies that ensure education, healthcare, decent work, and the full protection of their reproductive rights.Let us stand with young people and build a future where every person can shape their destiny in a world that is fair, peaceful and full of hope.[END]For more information and resources at the following link:https://www.un.org/en/observances/world-population-day

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Press Release

01 July 2025

Secretary-General’s Joint Press Encounter with the President of the Spain Pedro Sanchez

Secretary-General: At a time of profound global turmoil, we must keep working for peace, for peace in the Middle East. For an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the immediate release of all hostages, and unimpeded humanitarian access as a first step to achieve the two-State solution. For the ceasefire between Iran and Israel to hold. For a just and lasting peace in Ukraine based on the UN Charter, international law and UN resolutions. For an end to the horror and bloodshed in Sudan. We know that sustainable peace requires sustainable development. Ladies and gentlemen of the media. As I said in opening the Conference this morning, development is not just about numbers on a page. It’s about food, health care and education. It’s about jobs and social protection. It’s about infrastructure like water systems, internet access and climate-resilient buildings. It’s about providing equal opportunity for girls and women which moves all societies ahead. It’s about easing human suffering, and driving progress across every community, large and small. Development is about people. And we have collectively made great strides in development in recent decades. But progress doesn’t happen on its own. It takes support and investment. As we meet, the world is falling behind in its commitments to advance the Sustainable Development Goals. Achieving them will take an investment of more than $4 trillion a year. And meanwhile, global growth is slowing, trade barriers are rising, and aid budgets are falling. Developing countries are drowning in debt service payments, which have skyrocketed to $1.4 trillion every year. And the great enabler of development — international cooperation — is being chipped away by geopolitical mistrust and division. Now, this Conference is about rebuilding that trust with concrete commitments. With the adoption of the Sevilla Commitment document, countries are proving their dedication to getting the engine of development revving again: Through new domestic and global commitments that can channel public and private finance to the areas of greatest need… By overhauling the world’s approach to debt to make borrowing work in service of sustainable development... And by reforming the global financial architecture to reflect today’s realities and the urgent needs of developing countries, that must have a much stronger voice and participation in the institutions of this financial architecture. The Sevilla Platform of Action being launched later today will help us move from words to action. It contains dozens of new practical initiatives to accelerate funding for development around the world. This includes the commitment to establish a borrowers forum for countries to learn from one another and coordinate their approaches in debt management and restructuring. This is one of 11 immediately actionable proposals to help resolve the debt crisis, backed by my group of experts on debt that will be publishing their report. I look forward to working closely with Member States — including the G20 — to bring this forum to life.[END]Q &A: Question: [AFP] Secretary-General: Well, let's be clear. This conference takes place in one of the most difficult moments that I have witnessed in my public life. A moment of division, a moment in which we see conflicts multiplying and we see enormous difficulties for developing countries to overcome the challenges they face. And this is true in relation to debt, it's true in relation to climate, it's true in relation to all the aspects of development. And what is remarkable is that in this moment that is so difficult and where countries are so divided, it was possible to approve a Sevilla Commitment that represents one step ahead of both the Addis Ababa development conference, and – more important than that – one step ahead in relation to the Summit of the Future, just one year and a half ago. And so, the question is clear. There is a solid will of the bulk of the international community to change the system in order to allow for developing countries to benefit with the progress and development. And we know that there are resistances. We know that this is essentially a question of power. But I have a clear message to the powerful: It is better for them to lead the reform of the system now than to wait and eventually suffer the resistance later, when power relations change. And I believe that the reforms that are proposed in Sevilla, in line with the work that was done in the Summit of the Future, are reforms that are absolutely needed both for developing and developed countries. Question: [Reuters] My question is for the Secretary-General Guterres. In the event that the United States were to pull out from some of the major multilateral and development banks, who do you believe would be able to step in to try and fill that investment gap, and how can the United Nations help the MDB system cope in such a scenario? Thank you. Secretary-General: There is one thing that clearly evident for me. This is a moment in which we cannot expect increases in the official development assistance, but there are ways to multiply the resources available. And one of the things that we have approved here in Sevilla is to triple the lending capacity of multilateral development banks. And the logic is very simple. You have less ODA, okay. If you use your ODA, financing project by project, one dollar or one euro has the value of one dollar or one euro. If you use that dollar or that euro to increase the capital of a multilateral development bank, it allows the bank to go to the market to find more – six, seven or eight – and to increase the funds available to support developing countries. It's a question of political will. There are ways to multiply resources. The same with the special drawing rights. The special drawing rights are created from nothing, let us say. And if you distribute special drawing rights through the IMF, one dollar is one dollar. One euro is one euro. If you do it through multilateral development banks, again, you multiply the resources. So, it's time to seriously think about innovative forms of financing. To put a tax on carbon, to create levies in relation to several areas of activity, namely the impacts of maritime transportation in relation to climate change. I mean, there are many ways to multiply the resources available if we have the political will for that. And this can be done with the countries that are willing to do so, of course. To have the United States on board would be excellent, but it can be done in any case by those willing to do so. ***

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Press Release

01 July 2025

Nice Conference Adopts Declaration Underscoring Vital Importance of Ocean to Life on Our Planet, Essential Role in Mitigating Climate Change

“The ocean is fundamental to life on our planet and to our future, and we remain deeply alarmed by the global emergency it faces”, the Conference’s outcome document (A/CONF.230/2025/L.1) said, adding also: “Action is not advancing at the speed or scale required to meet Goal 14 and realize the 2030 Agenda [for Sustainable Development]”.The declaration, also known as the “Nice Ocean Action Plan”, expressed deep concern that the ability of the ocean and its ecosystems to act as a climate regulator and to support adaptation has been “weakened”.Underlining the importance of interlinkages between the ocean, climate and biodiversity, the declaration called for enhanced global action to minimize the impact of climate change and ocean acidification. It emphasized the particular importance of implementing various UN agreements and frameworks, recognizing that it would significantly reduce the risks and impacts of climate change and help to ensure the health, sustainable use and resilience of the ocean.Further emphasizing the need to adapt to the “unavoidable effects” of climate change, the declaration affirmed the importance of the full and effective implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity and its Protocols, as well as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.Commending the leadership of small island developing States in highlighting and aiming to address sea level rise, the declaration also expressed concern for the high and rapidly increasing levels of plastic pollution and its negative impacts on the environment.The declaration reaffirmed shared commitment to accelerating action to prevent and significantly reduce and control marine pollution of all kinds, and reiterated the need to increase scientific knowledge on deep sea ecosystems.Further, the Conference’s outcome document recognized the “tremendous opportunities” offered by sustainable ocean-based economies for States, especially developing countries, and particularly small island developing and least developed countries, to eradicate poverty and hunger and achieve economic growth and social development.The declaration recognized the fundamental role of management tools, such as sustainable ocean plans, in achieving sustainable ocean-based economies and the sustainable management of ocean areas under national jurisdiction. It encouraged all States to promote participatory management schemes for small-scale fisheries and highlighted the importance of efforts in regional fisheries management organizations to establish sound management measures for sustainable fisheries and recognized the critical role of maritime transport, routes and infrastructure in the global economy, trade, food and energy security.Noting the adoption of the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction, the declaration called upon States and regional economic integration organizations that have not done so to consider signing and ratifying, approving or accepting the Agreement.Furthermore, the declaration called on States to promote awareness and education campaigns at the local, national, regional and international levels to inform the public about the importance of a healthy ocean and resilient marine ecosystems. Additionally, it emphasized the critical need for national ocean accounting and mapping of coastal and marine ecosystems, and of the ocean floor to inform policy decisions, development planning, integrated coastal zone management and conservation planning.Ocean action must be based on the best available science and knowledge, including, where available, traditional knowledge, knowledge of Indigenous Peoples and local knowledge systems, while recognizing and respecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples, and local communities, in conserving, restoring and sustainably using the ocean, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.The declaration also recognizes that Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14 is one of the least funded Goals and that accelerating ocean action globally requires significant and accessible finance and the fulfilment of existing commitments and obligations under relevant intergovernmental agreements.After the adoption of the outcome document, the representative of the Russian Federation, in explanation of vote, distanced her delegation from paragraph 26 which underlines the need for the swift entry into force of the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction.Panama’s delegate said that while much progress has been made this week, participants should have left the Conference with the full implementation of the Agreement.Venezuela’s delegate said that her Government is not party to the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction, but despite that, Caracas is committed to today’s outcome document.Both Chile and the Republic of Korea’s representatives made statements on their joint proposal to host the next United Nations Conference on Oceans in 2028.Delivering closing remarks, Special Adviser to the Presidents of the Conference on oceans and legal matters Elinor Hammarskjöld said the Conference’s dedication to ocean governance being more inclusive ensures that every voice is heard. “Together, we are shaping a future where cooperation leads to real lasting change”, she said. The adoption of this historic document has been a major achievement for the UN and is a vital step to reversing damage done to the climate.“The signs of the ocean in distress are all around us”, said Peter Thomson, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General of the United Nations for the Ocean. “The time of debating with the denialists is over”, he added.Special Presidential Envoy for the Ocean of France, Olivier Poivre d’Arvor, said that for thousands of years the ocean has shaped the “global world as we know it”, and for centuries, men have been using the ocean to explore other worlds. For centuries, the ocean has allowed people to trade in goods. “How have we been able to get to the stage where we serve the ocean so poorly”, he asked, adding that fully achieving SDG 14 is “not just a simple task”.The 2025 UN Conference to Support the Implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development, was held in an effort to boost commitments among nations, world leaders, environmental agencies and groups.[END]

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Press Release

01 July 2025

World Refugee Day

Today, we recognize the millions of refugees forced to flee war, persecution, and disaster.Every individual carries a story of profound loss – of a family uprooted and a future upended. Many face closed doors and a rising tide of xenophobia.From Sudan to Ukraine, from Haiti to Myanmar, a record number of people are on the run for their lives – while support is dwindling. And host communities, often in developing countries, are shouldering the greatest burden. This is unfair and unsustainable.But even as the world falls short, refugees continue to show extraordinary courage, resilience and determination.And when given the chance, they contribute meaningfully – strengthening economies, enriching cultures, and deepening social bonds.On this World Refugee Day, solidarity must go beyond words.Solidarity must mean boosting humanitarian and development support, expanding protection and durable solutions such as resettlement, and upholding the right to seek asylum – a pillar of international law. It must also mean listening to refugees and ensuring they have a voice in shaping their futures.And it must mean investing in long-term integration through education, decent work, and equal rights.Becoming a refugee is never a choice. But how we respond is. So let us choose solidarity. Let us choose courage. Let us choose humanity.[END]Video Messagehttps://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+WORLD+REFUGE+DAY+21+MAY+25/MSG+SG+WORLD+REFUGE+DAY+21+MAY+25+broll.mp4***For more information and resources at the following link:https://www.un.org/en/observances/refugee-day

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Press Release

01 July 2025

4th International Conference on Financing for Development

It is an honour to address the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development. I thank the Government and people of Spain for hosting us in Seville. Despite the challenges the world face, we meet today at a determining point in history. Both for the United Nations, now in its eightieth year, and for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which is central to achieving the United Nations’ most foundational aims. We are at a unique moment to take the actions necessary to realise our aspirations. We have both challenges and opportunities. First and foremost, we need to renew trust in multilateralism with the United Nations at its centre. And secondly, we must lay the necessary groundwork to fully achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. And to do so, we need, The political will of all of us gathered today,Global solidarity across peoples and nations,The financial resources that exist and can be channelled towards progress,but above all, we need leadership.We need Leadership, to guide us forward into a brighter, more prosperous future for everyone, everywhere. This is what this Conference is about. We are now just five years away from the 2030 deadline to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Yet, the gap to finance them remains vast. Global financing needs have grown dramatically since 2015. This is especially true for developing countries, which require $4.2 trillion annually to close the financing gap. These developing countries are walking a tightrope betweenDefaulting on debts,- Defaulting on their efforts to achieve sustainable development,- And defaulting on the promise to provide acceptable standards of living to their people. The consequences are serious: 3.3 billion people live in countries that spend more on debt service than on health or education.Without urgent action, our promise to leave no one behind will remain unfulfilled. We cannot afford to lower our ambition. The Pact for the Future adopted in September 2024 by Heads of State commits us to closing the financing gap in developing countries. In tandem, the “Compromiso de Sevilla”, and the Sevilla Platform for Action, set a framework of renewed global partnership for the decade to come. Going forward, we must focus on the debt burdens which are derailing countries from the future they deserve. Reform of the international financial architecture, as called for in the Pact for the Future, and reinforced in the “Compromiso”, presents options for creating more sustainable debt environments.The creation of a twenty-fifth chair at the International Monetary Fund dedicated to sub-Saharan Africa is a welcome step. But more must be done. We must strengthen the voice and representation of developing countries, not as beneficiaries but as equal partners in shaping their destinies and shaping their future. We must enhance fiscal space and lower the cost of capital. And we must strengthen cooperation on international tax matters. These efforts must include the finalisation of a United Nations framework convention on international tax cooperation. An important aspect of this convention is to tackle illicit financial flows which deprive developing countries of $88.6 billion annually. Throughout our efforts, scaling up climate finance will be critical to our success. Climate funds must be additional to rather than diverted from other development priorities. Projections show developing countries need more than $1 trillion annually to build resilience. Each Member State has something to contribute – whether financing and partnerships, capacity building or even best practices. To this end, I urge Member States to follow through in providing 0.7 percent of national income as Official Development Assistance. This target was exceeded by only four countries last year namely: Denmark, Luxembourg, Norway, and Sweden. I call on others to match this level of commitment. If fulfilled, these funds could translate into: Fewer people going hungry, in a world of plenty. Fewer people lacking access to education, amid a revolution in online learning. And fewer people falling behind in the global pursuit of progress. It is time to keep our promises. Let us ensure that Seville is remembered for what was set in motion: Collective action to provideadditional,innovative,adequate,affordable,predictable,and accessible financing for development from all sources, including the private sector. In fact, we have no shortage of solutions. Let us leave this Conference ready to act, together. With hope. With ambition. And with the leadership that this moment demands. Thank you.[END]

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