UN Deputy Secretary-General champions sustainable development in Asia-Pacific: A call to action for accelerated progress and collaboration
Robust multilateral cooperation can be the only path to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed underscored this message and called for accelerated action, innovation, and strategic investments to address multi-pronged challenges in the Asia Pacific region.
Speaking at a meeting, earlier this week, with the Asia Pacific Regional Collaborative Platform, the UN Deputy Chief commended the significant strides made by the Platform to support country teams and member states to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Deploying technical expertise, facilitating peer exchange and good practice, the Platform has been building extensive knowledge networks with diverse experts.
Joining other UN officials including Under-Secretary-General Guy Ryder, Assistant Secretary-General Felipe Paullier, Under-Secretary-General Armida Alisjahbana, and Assistant Secretary-General Kanni Wignaraja, Ms. Mohammed opened with a reflection on the 2023 SDG Summit's Political Declaration, reinforcing the central role of SDGs in guiding global sustainable development.
Considering regional progress and future outlook for the region, insights from the participants emphasized the urgency of action in areas such as climate action, sustainable economic growth, youth engagement, and human rights, setting the stage for a collaborative and transformative future.
Climate action and sustainable energy transitions, tailored to the diverse environmental challenges of the Asia Pacific region is a pivotal need of the hour. Member states need to invest in new technologies and solutions, balancing climate mitigation and adaptation efforts in line with their specific environmental and developmental contexts.
With the increasing impact of disasters in the region, the importance of developing resilient systems and enhancing disaster management capabilities was also a significant priority. Digital technologies and innovation have the potential to accelerate SDG progress, presenting opportunities for the UN to support member states to leverage tools such as digital infrastructure and Artificial Intelligence for sustainable development.
Discussions on the future of work emphasized the needs for social protection and policies supporting the working poor and fostering economic inclusion and sustainable livelihoods, particularly those in the informal sector.
The Deputy Secretary-General further emphasized the essential role of Regional Directors in strengthening gender equality in ensuring just and inclusive transformative change to reach the 2030 Agenda and navigating growing geo-political complexities.
"Investments in transitions, a robust metric system, and the alignment of UN frameworks are essential components of our strategy for impactful outcomes. Prioritizing sustainability and effectiveness are paramount," said Ms. Mohammed, concluding the event with a call for collective efforts for a sustainable and equitable future.
At the regional level, the Regional Collaborative Platform (RCP) unites all UN entities working on sustainable development to ensure full collaboration and coordination of UN assets in addressing key challenges that transcend country borders. Learn more about the RCP here.
