The UK is Priortising Finance, Climate, Tech and Gender to Expedite the SDGs: UK statement at UN Second Committee

UN Headquarters, New York, October 3, 2023 - Ambassador James Kariuki of the United Kingdom delivered a powerful statement at the General Debate of the UN Second Committee, outlining the UK's unwavering commitment to accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with a specific focus on finance, climate, technology, and gender equality.

At the outset, Ambassador Kariuki expressed his optimism about the Committee's new leadership and looked forward to working closely with them. He began by acknowledging the sobering reality that, despite some strides, the majority of SDGs are currently off-track, with climate, environment, gender equality, poverty reduction, and hunger eradication facing the most substantial challenges.

The Ambassador emphasized the significance of the SDG Summit Political Declaration as a 7-year roadmap, emphasizing the need to target policies and investments for accelerated progress, especially in regions and among communities that are furthest from attaining the SDGs.

The UK's commitment to addressing these challenges was outlined in four key areas:

Finance: The United Kingdom called for a larger, better, and more equitable international financial system. The UK pledged its support for reforming Multilateral Development Banks, aiming to unlock over $200 billion in additional finance over the next decade. This effort seeks to create a more resilient and sustainable international financial architecture that can better mobilize private investment. Furthermore, the UK expressed a commitment to curbing illicit financial flows, including those that involve the City of London, which often divert critical resources from developing countries.

Climate: With COP28 on the horizon, the UK vowed to continue its collaboration with the United Arab Emirates and other nations to maintain focus on the Paris Agreement's objectives and the Glasgow Climate Pact. The Ambassador stressed the urgency of redoubling efforts to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C, reduce emissions, transition to renewable energy sources, and protect at least 30% of land and oceans by 2030. Additionally, the UK affirmed its support for the establishment of a Loss and Damage Fund that prioritizes the most vulnerable nations.

Technology: Science, evidence, and data were identified as the foundation for accelerating progress towards the SDGs. The UK committed to nurturing open and equitable science partnerships with developing countries. Ambassador Kariuki pointed to Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a prime example of innovative technology that, when harnessed inclusively, can significantly contribute to achieving the SDGs.

Gender Equality: The United Kingdom reiterated its steadfast commitment to achieving progressive outcomes for women and girls. In light of the challenges posed by climate change, rising poverty, increased hunger, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the UK underscored the importance of addressing both new and existing gender disparities.

Ambassador Kariuki emphasized the importance of maintaining the spirit of partnership and unwavering dedication to the SDGs during the 78th session of the committee. The UK pledged to ensure that the necessary financing and investments are secured to leave no one behind in the pursuit of sustainable development.

The United Kingdom's holistic and determined approach to advancing the SDGs in finance, climate, technology, and gender equality reaffirms its position as a global leader committed to addressing the world's most pressing challenges and building a more sustainable and equitable future for all.