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Tag: United Nations

  • African Union ECOSOCC, EESC present joint declaration at UN Summit of the Future

    African Union ECOSOCC, EESC present joint declaration at UN Summit of the Future

    The African Union Economic, Social and Cultural Council (AU ECOSOCC) and the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) have jointly presented a groundbreaking Joint Declaration at the UN Summit of the Future, underscoring civil society’s pivotal role in global governance, sustainable development, and climate action.

    This declaration builds on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two institutions in Accra, Ghana, on July 17, 2024, which fosters cooperation on sustainable development, climate action, and enhancing civil society engagement.

    Read also: UN adopts landmark ‘Pact for the Future’ to revamp global governance

    AU ECOSOCC, EESC’s call for civil society inclusion in global governance

    At the heart of the Joint Declaration is the call for a reinvigorated multilateral system that gives civil society a central role in decision-making processes at the global level. ECOSOCC and EESC emphasise that tackling pressing global issues such as climate change, poverty, and inequality requires a more inclusive and equitable approach. By empowering civil society, they aim to ensure that policies reflect the needs and aspirations of communities, particularly in developing regions such as Africa.

    President Röpke of the EESC highlighted the importance of moving beyond symbolic consultations and fostering genuine dialogue with civil society to shape the future of global governance. He stressed that civil society’s role should not be a mere formality but a critical component of international decision-making. His call for robust multilateralism resonates with Africa’s quest for more excellent representation in global governance structures.

    Accelerating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

    Most of the declaration focuses on accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). ECOSOCC and EESC call for comprehensive strategies to advance these goals, emphasising the need for structured civil society engagement in global development efforts. They advocate for better financial mechanisms to support sustainable development initiatives, particularly in Africa, where many countries face challenges securing the necessary funding for SDG-related projects.

    The declaration also highlights the importance of addressing the disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations, particularly women and girls. The joint statement calls for gender-responsive policies in climate action and development programs to ensure that the needs of all citizens are met during transitions to climate-neutral economies.

    Read also: Ghana welcomes new battery swapping network launched by Kofa, PASH, Shell, and UK

    Reforming the global financial system for Africa’s development

    The declaration strongly advocates for reforming the United Nations by increasing the representation of developing countries within the UN Security Council, mainly from Africa. The institutions also advocate for a fair transition to climate neutrality, ensuring the shift to green economies is inclusive, just, and poverty-eradicating. This is crucial for African nations disproportionately affected by climate change yet contributing the least to global emissions. 

    This move aims to ensure a more inclusive decision-making process that accounts for the unique challenges faced by African nations.

    Fostering youth and digital innovation

    The declaration recognises the power of youth and digital transformation in shaping the future and calls for increased investment in science, technology, and digital governance. It underscores the necessity of harnessing digital innovations to benefit both people and the planet, encouraging more African and European youth involvement.

    The collaboration between ECOSOCC and EESC represents a deepened effort to create a more just global system with Africa at its core. It reaffirms the importance of youth empowerment, gender equity, and sustainable development, paving the way for Africa’s strengthened leadership in global governance.

  • UN adopts landmark ‘Pact for the Future’ to revamp global governance

    UN adopts landmark ‘Pact for the Future’ to revamp global governance

    World leaders at the United Nations (UN) have adopted the historic “Pact for the Future,” a comprehensive framework to overhaul global governance and address emerging global challenges. This multi-faceted agreement includes the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations, aiming to reshape international cooperation for a rapidly changing world.

    UN SUMMIT OF THE FUTURE

    Read also: UK government pledges £1.9 million to boost science and tech in Ghana and Nigeria

    Pact of the Future pillars

    The Pact reflects a shared commitment to revitalise the UN and ensure that international institutions are fit for the modern world. Leaders underscored the importance of strengthening global governance, focusing on inclusivity and representation, and adapting to 21st-century realities. As UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasised, “We cannot create a future fit for our grandchildren with a system built by our grandparents.”

    The Pact is built on several key pillars and covers many critical global issues. One of the Pact’s significant breakthroughs is the most vital commitment to UN Security Council reform in decades, focusing on addressing Africa’s historic underrepresentation. It also includes renewed pledges to nuclear disarmament and enhancing international frameworks to prevent militarisation in outer space. Notably, the Pact commits to regulating emerging technologies, including lethal autonomous weapons.

    A central aim of the Pact is accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The agreement includes calls for a reformed international financial system, granting developing nations more influence in global financial decisions. Additionally, there are provisions to mobilise more funding to help vulnerable nations combat climate change and transition to renewable energy. The Pact affirms the importance of keeping global warming below 1.5°C, with a pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

    The first global framework for digital cooperation 

    One of the most ambitious parts of the agreement is the Global Digital Compact, the first global framework for digital cooperation and AI governance. This compact sets out commitments to universal internet access, improved online safety—particularly for children—and equitable governance of artificial intelligence. There is a strong focus on ensuring that technology benefits all people and is anchored in human rights.

    The compact also addresses the growing need for data governance, with a pledge to take concrete action by 2030 to make data more accessible, transparent, and governed by international standards.

    Read also: Ghana welcomes new battery swapping network launched by Kofa, PASH, Shell, and UK

    The Declaration on Future Generations is a critical feature of the Pact, which advocates for long-term decision-making to ensure future generations are considered in today’s policies. Additionally, the Pact calls for deeper engagement with young people, providing them with meaningful opportunities to influence global decisions. Gender equality and women empowerment also receive substantial focus, with the Pact strengthening commitments to protect human rights defenders and women’s rights globally.

    The Pact for the Future results from years of consultations, with input from millions worldwide. Over 4,000 participants, including heads of state, government officials, and civil society representatives, attended the Summit of the Future. Action Days that featured significant pledges, including over $1 billion toward advancing digital inclusion, were preceding the summit.

    The Pact for the Future marks a transformative moment in global governance, offering a comprehensive strategy for dealing with the world’s most pressing issues. With commitments to international security, digital governance, and sustainable development, it aims to ensure that global institutions can meet the challenges of the 21st century while safeguarding the interests of future generations.

  • Nigerian CEOs, UN women launch $25 Million GBV fund

    Nigerian CEOs, UN women launch $25 Million GBV fund

    Nigerian CEOs have joined forces with UN Women to establish a $25 million Private Sector-Led Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Fund as part of moves towards gender equality and women’s empowerment. 

    This initiative transcends conventional corporate social responsibility, focusing on purposeful gender-responsive interventions that combat violence against women and girls while fostering women’s empowerment.

    The ambitious project, officially launched in Lagos on September 19, 2023, is the brainchild of gender-responsive private sector organisations, spearheaded by Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR) and the Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ). These non-profit organisations have a strong track record of promoting women-owned businesses and enhancing women’s business acumen.

    UN Women Regional Director for West & Central Africa, Mr. Maxime Houinato
    UN Women Regional Director for West & Central Africa, Mr. Maxime Houinato  PHOTO: UN Women

    UN Women Regional Director for West & Central Africa, Mr. Maxime Houinato, was in Nigeria for an executive visit and played a pivotal role in facilitating the fund’s launch. Houinato stressed the indispensable role of the private sector in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment across various domains, including politics, economics, and addressing violence against women and girls. He urged the private sector to intensify its commitment to enhancing women’s livelihoods and providing them access to economic opportunities.

    Read also: UN women envoy to meet Nigerian private sector leaders

    A Solution to a Widespread Problem

    Beatrice Eyong, UN Women Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS emphasised that GBV has far-reaching financial implications. She maintained that reducing the prevalence of violence against women and girls is a catalyst for improved family incomes and economic prosperity at the societal level.

    This initiative marks a pivotal moment in UN Women Nigeria’s endeavour to engage the private sector actively and encourage investment in Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) initiatives. The private sector, often a major contributor to national income and employment, possesses the potential to drive technological advancements, enhance governance, foster research and development, and build workforce capacity.

    A Vision for a Transformed Future

    With the launch of the $25 million Private Sector-Led GBV Fund, UN Women has embarked on a transformative journey to address the pervasive challenges faced by women and girls in Nigeria. This commendable endeavour will provide critical resources for strategic GEWE interventions, offering survivors of GBV access to justice, livelihood opportunities, and other economic prospects at an unprecedented scale.

    Kaduna State and Google train 5,000 women in digital skills 

    Unlocking Nigeria’s Economic Potential By Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

    Statistics show that women business owners in Nigeria face various challenges, including limited access to funding and resources. According to a report by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), only 4.2% of women in Nigeria have access to bank loans and financial services, hindering their ability to establish and grow businesses.

    The UN Women-led GBV Fund aims to directly tackle these issues, offering financial support, training, and resources to women entrepreneurs, thereby boosting their businesses and enhancing their lives. By empowering women business owners, this initiative is set to play a vital role in advancing Nigeria’s economy and fostering greater gender equality in the country.

    This initiative is closely aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5, which seeks to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. Furthermore, studies have shown that empowering women economically can have a significant impact on national economies. A report by McKinsey & Company estimated that achieving gender equality in the workplace could add $28 trillion to the global economy by 2025.

    The launch of the $25 million Private Sector-Led GBV Fund is not just a financial commitment but a testament to the potential for positive change when organisations and leaders come together to address complex societal issues. 

    In the spirit of collaboration and progress, the establishment of the fund represents a significant stride towards a more equitable and prosperous future for all Nigerian women and girls. As this initiative unfolds, it holds the promise of transforming lives, enhancing gender equality, and contributing to the economic growth of Nigeria.

  • UN advocates for increased global spending on education

    UN advocates for increased global spending on education

    The United Nations Secretary General, António Guterres, has called for a major increase in spending and investment for the sector’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets in the education sector to be realised.

    In remarks made for the UN’s High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) this month (July 10-19), UN Secretary General stated that the current state of SDG 4’s goal to “Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all” is weak.

    According to recent research, about $100 billion is required annually to enable countries to reach their national goals for accomplishing Goal 4, according to Guterres.

    According to him, “education systems must be reimagined, and education financing must become a priority national investment” in order to achieve Goal 4.

    One advantage of making such an investment would be that it might improve universal education, which could help the other 16 SDGs, for which progress is also needed. In fact, the UN secretariat for the summit stated in a background note that science may save the SDGs by helping to buck a troubling trend.

    Read also: TECNO, UNHCR support African refugee’s higher education

    Role of Science and Technology in Agenda 2030

    “We are not on track to achieve the SDGs at the halfway point of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” the note stated. 

    The globe has halted or reversed on more than 30% of the SDGs, progress on 50% of them is inadequate and insufficient, and only 12% of the SDG targets are currently on pace.

    But it went on to say that “science, technology, and innovation (STI) can play a critical role in disrupting business-as-usual practices to help the world change course and get on track to achieve these goals.”

    The paper noted how “rapid scientific research and global collaboration” created vaccines to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, with technology like mobile applications helping to lessen the economic effects of the disease.

    “Climate resilient technologies, such climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy sources, and satellite technology for tracking weather occurrences, can aid in resolving environmental and climate disasters.

    Similar technology advancements might increase sustainability and efficiency to lessen resource scarcity, which is a root cause of both armed conflict and rising living costs, it said.

    Funding for STI

    Overall, the research said that science, technology, and innovation might “contribute immensely to advancing sustainability,” but that in order to do so, financing and priorities for science may need to be better aligned with sustainability priorities and the UN SDG 2030 plan.

    Lachezera Stoeva, chairperson of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), also spoke on Monday. She emphasised the value of innovation, technology, and high-impact partnerships between governments, civil society, the corporate sector, and academia in bringing about “meaningful change”.

    We are halfway to 2030, yet the SDGs are still far from being accomplished, she claimed. “We’ve lost seven years, which is horrible news. The good news is that we still have seven years left to achieve triumph.

    All of these meetings in New York are laying the groundwork for a significant SDG Summit that will take place on September 18–19, 2023, once more in New York.

    This summit, which occurs halfway between the SDG process’s inception and its 2030 implementation target, will present “high-level political guidance on transformative and accelerated actions,” according to a UN notice.

    The gender gap in green technology sectors

    A summary of the presentations made to the preparatory forum this week by the functional commissions of the Economic and Social Council and other intergovernmental agencies and forums noted that one goal of future initiatives could be to address gender disparities in the green technology sectors.

    The synthesis of submissions report stated that increased access to technical vocational education and training for women is required, especially those capacity-building programmes for educating women who are already professionals in green industries.

    In a report for the forum, the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development examined regional issues and recommended that the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) “accelerate the evolution of an African-driven science and technology education in universities that includes indigenous knowledge and innovative approaches.”

    Additionally, it asked African UN members to support open science, including free academic publishing, in line with UNESCO’s recommendations because it serves as “an essential framework for transformative international scientific cooperation.”

    The school completion rate grew at the sub-tertiary level between 2015 and 2021 from 85% to 87% for elementary, 74% to 77% for lower secondary, and 53% to 58% for upper secondary, according to Guterres, despite his concerns regarding SDG 4. According to the secretary general, if SDG 4 is more successfully attained—”to better prepare learners of all ages for the future”—it will encourage the acceleration of all other SDG targets.

    In an interview with University World News, Aurélien Decamps, managing director and co-founder of Sulitest, a significant UN Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI) partner, acknowledged the need for additional work on sustainability, particularly in higher education.

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    Need for green employability skills

    There is an opportunity for specific tasks focused on employability and green jobs, knowledge and best practices, sustainability, and employability to reform the curriculum and give students the necessary tools for sustainability.

    He said the liaison work of HESI is crucial because it helps “connect different stakeholders who are not used to collaborating,” helping to establish and progress new projects, in an interview with University World News in New York during the SDG conference sessions.

    “This is an odd initiative. On this platform, academic networks, higher education institutions, and student organisations collaborate with 10 UN agencies.

    He said that it was successful in connecting these governmental organisations with HE.