UN forum on sustainable development concludes with renewed commitment, call for urgent action

The High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development concluded on Wednesday, with nations reaffirming the need for renewed momentum and accelerated action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the 2030 deadline. The forum, held under the auspices of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), took place from 8 to 17 July, focusing on the theme “Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises”. The discussions centered on delivering sustainable, resilient, and innovative solutions.

Key Highlights:

The session included a three-day ministerial segment from 15 to 17 July, where discussions culminated in the adoption of a ministerial declaration. This outcome followed intense debate and two key votes on amendments.

1. Amendment on unilateral measures:
   A proposal by Belarus, Cuba, Iran, Russia, and Syria urged states to refrain from applying unilateral economic, financial, or trade measures that contradict international law and hinder economic and social development, particularly in developing countries. This amendment was passed with 105 votes in favor, 11 against, and 46 abstentions.
2. Amendment on peace and security:
   An amendment proposed by Israel sought to delete a paragraph that linked peace and security with sustainable development and addressed the right to self-determination of peoples under colonial or foreign occupation. The Forum voted to retain the paragraph, with 122 Member States voting in favor, two against (Israel and the United States), and 39 abstentions.

After these votes, the ministerial declaration was adopted without further opposition.

Renewed Commitment:

Following the adoption of the declaration, Paula Narváez, President of ECOSOC, emphasized the urgency of accelerating efforts to implement the 2030 Agenda. She noted that the forum had shown it is still possible to achieve sustainable development. Narváez also commended Ambassador José Blanco (Dominican Republic) and Ambassador Merete Fjeld Brattested (Norway) for their leadership in facilitating complex and inclusive negotiations, which included over 70 hours of talks and numerous informal sessions.

Narváez concluded by highlighting the collective resolve of Member States to make the necessary transformations to advance sustainable development and achieve the SDGs.

Details from: UN News