Генеральная Ассамблея: 37-е пленарное заседание, 81-я сессия
Генеральная Ассамблея
Date: 5 November 2026
Language: English
Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/ru/ga/81/37?lang=en
Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations.

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GA · Vice-President [19:26]:

The 37th plenary meeting of the General Assembly is called to order. The Assembly will resume its consideration in a joint debate of agenda item 9, entitled Report of the Economic and Social Council, and agenda item 12, entitled Integrated and coordinated implementation of and follow-up to the outcomes of the major United Nations conferences and summits in the economic, social and related fields. In connection with agenda item 9, I would like to recall that, pursuant to resolution 58/316 of 1 July 2004, the Assembly, on the recommendation of the General Committee, decided at its second plenary meeting on 11 September 2026 to consider the item in its entirety in plenary, on the understanding that the administrative, programme and budgetary aspects should be dealt with by the Fifth Committee. At the same meeting, the Assembly took note of the clarification that, in implementing resolution 58/316, to consider item 9 in its entirety in plenary, the relevant parts of chapter I of the report of the Economic and Social Council that are under agenda items already allocated to the main committees will be considered by the committee concerned for final action by the Assembly. In connection with agenda item 12, members will recall that pursuant to resolution 57/270 B of the 23rd of June, 2003, the Assembly decided to consider under the item the chapters of the annual report of the Economic and Social Council relevant to the integrated and coordinated implementation of and follow-up to the outcome of the major United Nations conferences and summits, including through the participation in its discussions of the President of the Council. The documentation under these items is listed in the Journal of the United Nations. I will now make a statement on behalf of the President of the General Assembly. Your Excellency Ammar Ben Jama, President of the Economic and Social Council; Mr. Lok Bahadur Thapa, former President of the Economic and Social Council; Excellencies, distinguished delegates, I deliver this statement on behalf of the President of the General Assembly. I extend my sincere thanks to the President of the Economic and Social Council, who will be presenting the Council's report, and commend him, the Bureau, and all its members for their work throughout the session. ECOSOC's 80th anniversary offers an opportunity both to honor its contributions to a more peaceful, prosperous, and equitable world, and to sharpen our focus on delivery. But it is also a moment to look ahead. As we work to restore trust in multilateralism, we must remember that it requires institutions that listen, foster inclusive dialogue, and above all, translate commitments into tangible results on delivery, and for the people that we serve. ECOSOC is central to this effort. Its work across sustainable development, financing, innovation, humanitarian assistance, and UN system-wide coordination connects global ambition with national action. The adoption of General Assembly resolutions 80/293 (a) and (b) provides an important opportunity to strengthen the Council and the High-Level Political Forum. while reinforcing the complementarity of our respective mandates. Excellencies, I commend ECOSOC for convening the 2026 High-Level Political Forum, including its 36 voluntary national reviews, and for adopting its ministerial declaration. Together, these efforts helped Member States assess progress, exchange solutions, and renew their collective commitment to the 2030 agenda. With 2030 fast approaching, the Council's theme of this year, transformative, equitable, innovative, and coordinated action, captures precisely what this moment demands. The task now is to build on what works. address what does not, and bring effective solutions to scale. This takes national leadership, sustained investment, and partnerships that respond to each country's priorities. It also requires the means to deliver. For many developing countries, mounting debt pressures, constrained fiscal space, and persistent financing gaps continue to undermine their ability to invest in sustainable development. This makes ECOSOC's work on financing for development, including international tax cooperation and financial integrity, all the more important. Innovation must also expand opportunities, not just deepen divides. In this spirit, the joint General Assembly ECOSOC meeting of digital inclusion, innovation, and youth entrepreneurship held on the 5th of May, 2026. and the Council's Science, Technology and Innovation Forum held on 6-7 May 2026, provided important opportunities to advance this agenda. As we advance UN80, ECOSOC's follow-up to the Quadrennial Comprehensive Policy Review is particularly important. It should help ensure that stronger coordination, accountability, and funding deliver more effective UN support for nationally determined priorities. Excellencies, the President of the General Assembly deeply values the Council's work and stands ready to work closely with its President within our respective mandates to advance shared objectives. As we build on 80 years of ECOSOC's contributions, Let us transform solidarity into action and commitments into results. Ultimately, trust is earned not by the promises we repeat, but by the lives we improve. I thank you. I now give the floor to the President of the Economic and Social Council for the 2026 session. His Excellency, Lok Bahar Dutta.


ECOSOC · President of ECOSOC (2026 session) [27:00]:

The President of the General Assembly, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, I have the honour to introduce the report of the Economic and Social Council for its 2026 session. contained in document A/81/3. Serving as the President of the Council was a great honor for me and for my country, Nepal. My presidency was guided by the motto “Delivering Better.” This was not merely a slogan; this was a call to make multilateralism more relevant, more responsive, and more result-oriented, to translate our collective commitments into tangible actions, and to ensure that our work delivers meaningful impact where it matters the most in the lives of the people. My presidency coincided with pivotal moments for ECOSOC, as well as the broader United Nations system. The Council actively engaged in and contributed to major global conferences and intergovernmental processes, including the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, the Second World Summit for Social Development, preparations for the 2026 UN Water Conference, and the GA review of ECOSOC and High-Level Political Forum. These processes underscores the indispensable role of ECOSOC as a platform for dialogue, for partnerships, and for policy coherence for our collective actions. ECOSOC marks its 80th anniversary under the theme “ECOSOC 80: A Turning Point for Multilateralism” in January. This important milestone provided an opportunity not only to reflect on ICOSAC's enduring legacy and the achievements over the years, but to reaffirm its crucial role in shaping a more inclusive, more responsive, more effective, and forward-looking multilateralism. The Council 2026 coordination segment was built on these reflections, bringing together former ECOSOC presidents, chairs of the subsidiary bodies and United Nations systems to examine how to translate global commitments into coherent actions and tangible results. This event also provided input to the General Assembly’s review of ECOSOC and High-Level Political Forum. Excellencies, Its conflicts and disasters continue to drive humanitarian needs. Addressing their root causes requires integrated humanitarian, development, and peace efforts. This was reflected in the Humanitarian Affairs Segment, the joint meeting with the Peacebuilding Commissions, and the meeting on the transition from relief to development. Discussions highlighted that Humanitarian assistance alone cannot address the structural drivers of the displacement and vulnerability. Participants called for earlier engagement by development actors and international financial institutions, more predictable and flexible financing, and stronger support for local actors. The humanitarian affairs segment sought broad support for the humanitarian reset. and reaffirmed the importance of protecting civilians and humanitarian personnel, respecting international humanitarian law, and ensuring humanitarian access. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, throughout my presidency, I sought to show that ICOSOC can respond quickly and effectively to emerging challenges. A special meeting on safeguarding energy and supply flows, examine ways to ease fiscal pressures and to strengthen resilience, particularly in developing countries. The special meeting on agri-food system transformations highlighted the need to scale up financing, technology transfer, and youth participation. I also convened a high-level meeting on in Bangkok entitled "Sagar Mata to the Sea: Vanishing Glaciers and Rising Sea in a Warming World," which brought renewed attention to the growing threat posed by glacier retreat and glacier lake outburst floods and their far-reaching implications for vulnerable communities and ecosystems. The issue resonates deeply particularly in the aftermath of the catastrophic floods in my own country, Nepal. You know, this tragedy served as a stark reminder of the disproportionate burden that climate change places on vulnerable communities, despite their minimal contributions to global emissions. It has underscored the urgent need to strengthen resilience, to enhance preparedness, and to accelerate collective actions to safeguard lives, to safeguard livelihoods, and sustainable development gains. Excellencies, building on the work of my predecessors, I continued to strengthen participation by civil society, major groups, and other stakeholders, including through major monthly meetings exchanges with the ECOSOC Bureau. which helped deepen engagement and brought diverse perspectives into the Council's deliberations. The ECOSOC Partnership Forum also underscores that partnerships are an indispensable delivery mechanism for the Sustainable Development Goals. We also engaged a record number of young people through the ECOSOC Youth Forum, which called for their meaningful participation in decision-making and stronger investment in youth-led actions. Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, financing for development remained a central priority of my presidency. Following the SOBIER commitment, ECOSOC convened two new special meetings: the first on financial integrity, focused on combating illicit financial flows and strengthening domestic resource mobilizations. The second, the integral special meeting on credit rating agencies examined their impact on financing sustainable development. The 2026 ECOSOC Forum on Financing for Development follow-up assessed progress on the sovereign commitment. amid geopolitical tensions, declining official development assistance, tighter financial conditions, and rising debt. Its consensus outcome reaffirmed member states' commitment to multilateral cooperation and identified priority areas for further cooperations and actions. We continued our close consultations and engagement with the Bretton Woods institutions, both in New York and Washington, D.C. Through this engagement, we sought to strengthen cooperation between the United Nations and international financial institutions while advancing efforts towards the implementation of the Sabiya commitment. ECOSOC also convened a special high-level meeting with WTO and UNCTAD. Excellencies, the joint thematic event of the General Assembly and ECOSOC on the mid-term review of the Doha Programme of Action highlighted the specific vulnerabilities of the least developed countries. The special meeting on international cooperation in tax matters explored how artificial intelligence can strengthen tax administrations with appropriate safeguards and human oversight. The Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology, and Innovation states that innovation must be supported by inclusive governance, by equitable financing, by strong institutions, and by international cooperation. The President of the General Assembly and I also convened the joint meeting on digital inclusion, innovations, and youth entrepreneurship to consider opportunities and challenges for youth to leverage rapid digital change, including artificial intelligence. On operational activities for development, the Council reviewed progress in implementing the Quadrennial Comprehensive Policy Review and provided guidance to enhance the impact of the United Nations development systems at country level. Excellencies, the 2026 High-Level Political Forum on ECOSOC High-Level Segment brought together more than 4,000 participants, including more over 120 heads of government, minister, and other senior officials, as well as hundreds of representatives from civil society and other stakeholders. 36 countries presented their voluntary national reviews. Discussion on the way forward to 2030 focused on accelerating implementations of the goals and preparing for the 2027 SDG Summit. The Ministerial Declarations reaffirm countries’ commitment to multilateral cooperation and to the 2030 Agenda. Excellencies, allow me to highlight five important reflections. First, we must move from global commitments to tangible results. The 2030 Agenda remains our shared promise to humanity. Eight, with the Sustainable Development Goals facing such significant implementation gaps, we cannot afford business as usual. Our efforts throughout the presidency focus on strengthening ECOSOC as a platform for actions, for implementations, and for accountability. We must move beyond declarations and commitments towards measurable progress, ensuring that development reaches the people and communities who need it the most. Second, renewing trust and confidence in multilateralism is critical. At a time of geopolitical tensions, growing inequalities, and complex global crises, the need for effective multilateral cooperation has never been greater. Our experience has reaffirmed that dialogue, trust, consensus, and solidarity remain indispensable. Differences should not prevent us from finding common ground. ECOSOC must continue to serve as a bridge between diverse perspectives, a platform for collective action, and an instrument for strengthening international cooperation. Third, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to leaving no one and no country behind. Sustainable development cannot be achieved if entire countries and communities and populations are left behind. We must give particular attention to the needs and priorities of the least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, and small island developing states. We must also address poverty, inequality, food insecurity, displacement, and digital divide, while promoting gender equality, youth participation, and social inclusion. Our commitment must be to ensure that development opportunities are accessible to all. Fourth, we must advance innovative and integrated solutions for sustainable development. The challenges before us are interconnected and require integrated responses. During our presidency, we emphasized the importance of mobilizing development financing, strengthening food security, promoting digital inclusion, and expanding opportunities for youth entrepreneurship and enhancing climate resilience, especially for most vulnerable countries and communities. We also recognize the importance of linking development with peacebuilding, resilience, and social justice. Fifth, a stronger, more coherent, and effective ECOSOC is indispensable. We sought to strengthen coordination between the General Assembly and ECOSOC, improve coherence across the UN development system, enhance engagement with international financial institutions, and deepen partnership with civil society, the private sector, and other stakeholders. A more effective ECOSOC is essential for a more effective United Nations. Our ambition must be to make the Council more relevant, more inclusive, and more capable of delivering on its Charter mandate. Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, ECOSOC relevance and responsibility has never been greater. The challenges before us are immense, but so too is our collective capacity to address them through partnership, through solidarity, and through multilateral actions. I encourage Member States, the United Nations system, and all stakeholders to use the Council’s convening power to turn commitment into concrete action that delivers better and improves people’s lives. Let us continue to leverage the Council as a platform for dialogue, for cooperation, and solutions, translating our commitment into tangible results. and ensuring that the promise of sustainable development reaches all people and all countries. Let us work together to build a world that is more peaceful, inclusive, equitable, resilient, and sustainable. Let us continue to deliver better. As I conclude, Excellencies, I wish to thank Vice President of the Council, Ambassador Amar Benzema of Algeria, Ambassador Paru of Armenia, Ambassador Wellington Boscum of the Dominican Republic, and Ambassador Hector Gomez-Hernandez of Spain for their collective and supportive spirit throughout the year. I am grateful to all the Member States, the ECOSOC Bureau, the Secretariat, the UN system, and all stakeholders for their confidence, for their cooperation, and for their support throughout the year. And finally, I wish my successor, Ambassador Benjama, every success as he leads the Council in its 2027 sessions. I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [43:38]:

I thank the President of the Economic and Social Council for the 2026 session. Before proceeding further, I propose that the time limit for statements in this debate be five minutes for individual delegations speaking in their national capacity and seven minutes for statements made on behalf of a group of States. Is there any objection to this proposal? In light of the objection made, no speaking time limit will be applied to the debate on this item. Nonetheless, delegations are encouraged to keep their statements brief. taking into account the suggested time limit. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria.


Algeria · Representative; President of ECOSOC [44:51]:

Madam President, let me first pay tribute to my dear friend, Ambassador Lokpadur Tapa, for his able leadership of ECOSOC at its 2026 session. My appreciations go also to the Bureau members, my dear friends, the Permanent Representatives of Armenia, Dominican Republic, and Spain. I value not only our excellent collaboration, but also our cordial relations and friendship. Colleagues, last session was particularly complex, complex in terms of the geopolitical tensions and persisting challenges facing especially developing countries in achieving SDGs. In addition, to financing for development gap, to debt burden, to food and energy insecurity, to digital divide, and widening inequalities, just to name a few. Yet, under Ambassador Tapa’s leadership, ECOSOC at its 80th anniversary has demonstrated, as a charter body, its ability not only to deliver on its mandate in advancing sustainable development, but also to respond to emerging challenges. This proves that ECOSOC’s role is indispensable. Colleagues, It has been a privilege for me to take the gavel of ECOSOC presidency from Ambassador Tapa, to continue the journey and build on his work achievements. But believe me, it is not an easy task. We have had a very hectic, yet important 81st 83rd session. First, less than four years to deliver on our 2030 agenda, and we are still off track. Second, the 2027 SDG Summit, which will pave the way for beyond 2030 discussions; third, the implementation of ECOSOC HLPF review resolution; fourth, and the review of the ECOSOC subsidiary bodies, which is crucial for enhancing ECOSOC efficiency ECOSOC relevance. Thus, all this in addition to the regular ECOSOC meetings. Excellencies, as I indicated in July, I intend, during my presidency of ECOSOC, to focus on accelerating the implementation of SDGs, to move forward with the implementation of the Sevilla commitment, to advance discussions on AI governance, and further enhance ECOSOC's efficiency. I count on your support. on your active participation and engagement in all ECOSOC meetings to make this body, ECOSOC, more efficient, more relevant, and to renew trust in multilateralism to deliver better. I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [49:57]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Algeria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kuwait.


Kuwait [50:25]:

Thank you, Madam President. Allow me, on behalf of my country, the State of Kuwait, to express to you, Madam President, and the Bureau, our gratitude for guiding our works. We also express our appreciation to the ECOSOC for the annual report, as well as the note of the Secretary-General presented during this joint debate. Madam President, my State believes that multilateralism, with the United Nations at its center, remains the framework the most capable of facing transnational challenges. This discussion today is particularly important, given our shared responsibility to translate the outcomes of international summits into real progress in the lives of peoples. As we celebrate the 80th anniversary of the ECOSOC, we stress its importance in coordinating social, economic, and environmental work. In this regard, we call for further coordination between the GA, the ECOSOC, and the HLPF, as well as developing follow-up mechanisms while respecting the specificities and the mandates and priorities of countries and their authorities. We also believe that reform, particularly UN80, should lead to reducing duplication and increasing support for developing countries. This requires financing and capacities. The increased increased burden of debt as well as needs for financing for development requires further resources. We support the Sivella commitment, and we stress that developing countries, most notably LDCs, must have access to concessional financing while addressing debt and reducing the cost of financing. We stress the importance of financial integrity and fighting illicit flows. We also must enhance national capacities, transfer technologies, and build capacities to achieve the 2030 agenda. President, my country and its development policies focuses on people, and through our relevant fund, we support projects in developing countries, especially in water, sanitation, education, and energy. This is in line with the priorities of beneficiary countries. Our fund optimizes these activities by transferring knowledge to beneficiary countries and advancing national and local partnerships. This leads to better results. We also remain committed to supporting development and humanitarian activities of the United Nations. We call for linking relief to recovery and development so that affected communities can have access to services and basic needs. The Council this year discussed water security. It was a priority. We look forward to the UN Water Conference to be held in Abu Dhabi in the beginning of December of this year, co-hosted by the UAE and Senegal. We also expressed our gratitude and our full support to the United Arab Emirates as well as Senegal, in their joint efforts to prepare for the UN Water Conference 2026 in Abu Dhabi. We also look forward to the 11th Global Forum on Water to be held in Riyadh in 2027. We express our gratitude and our full support to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in its effort to host this forum. We also commend the role of these countries in enhancing international cooperation to address water challenges, to mobilize partnerships and resources to achieve water security, and implement the relevant SDG, SDG 6. Furthermore, it is important to follow up the implementation of the Doha Declaration of the Second World Summit on Social Development. We commend the efforts by Qatar in this regard. We believe that fighting poverty and enhancing decent work are necessary for development. In this regard, we call for further investment in education, energy, and skills, empowering women, youth, and persons with disabilities, as well as bridging the digital divide in order to enhance the opportunities of development. Finally, Achieving our shared commitments require political will with sufficient resources and regular follow-up, as well as clear indicators to measure results. My country stands ready to cooperate constructively with all members of the ECOSOC, as well as all partners, in order to achieve this goal. Our responsibility is that the resolutions and the decisions we make enhance the abilities of countries to face crises and advance the rights of our people to a better, prosperous, and safe future, leaving no one behind. I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [56:03]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Kuwait. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal.


Portugal [56:25]:

Madam President, thank you. Portugal welcomes the presentation of the report of ECOSOC for the 2026 session and congratulates the work of the Bureau under the guidance of Ambassador Azapa. Once again, the report demonstrates ECOSOC's central role in advancing sustainable development by connecting policy discussions with implementation. For next year, Portugal will approach its membership of ECOSOC with clear objectives to build effective partnerships and deliver results. Looking back on this session, we would like to highlight three priority messages. First, the importance of accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. The Council’s work on financing, energy resilience, technological innovation, and youth underscores how closely our challenges are connected. Our response must be equally coherent, integrating the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. We must protect the UN’s development pillar and strengthen its capacity to support national priorities. Human rights, gender equality, and the commitment to leave no one behind must remain central to this effort. Second, a renewed commitment to translate financing into accessible resources and effective cooperation. Portugal welcomes the Council's follow-up to the Seville Commitment, including its discussions on credit ratings and the cost of capital. We support more transparent, evidence-based, and forward-looking assessments, alongside stronger national statistical and institutional capacities. We will continue to promote approaches that go beyond GDP and better reflect countries' vulnerabilities, including through the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index, with particular attention to SIDS and other countries in vulnerable situations. Third, promote and build partnerships that respond to countries' needs and strengthen national ownership. Portugal will continue to support capacity building, namely through our fellowships with the United Nations on the ocean, digital issues, and outer space, but also through triangular cooperation. Furthermore, we will continue to support meaningful participation by young people, civil society, local authorities, and the private sector. Their knowledge and engagement are essential for an effective all of government and whole of society approach. Madam President, 2027 will be a pivotal year. This year, we will review progress on education, reduce inequalities, sustainable consumption and production, life on land, and partnerships. We must help identify practical solutions and accelerate implementation. Furthermore, we will have the SDG Summit in September to take an honest look at progress across all 17 goals and generate renewed political momentum backed by concrete action towards 2030. As we look beyond that horizon, our immediate responsibility remains to fulfill the commitments already made. Our simultaneous membership of ECOSOC and the Security Council in 2027 will also provide an opportunity to underline the mutually reinforcing relationship between sustainable development and peace. Portugal stands ready to work with all partners to strengthen cooperation, accelerate delivery, and help shape our shared ambition beyond 2030. I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [59:54]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Portugal. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.


Russian Federation [1:00:16]:

Madam President of the General Assembly, President of the Economic and Social Council, distinguished colleagues, My delegation, first of all, would like to support endorsing the report on the work conducted by the Economic and Social Council in 2025 and 2026. We underscore the key role played by the Council as a Charter UN body in the area of coordination, policy review, and working out recommendations on economic, social and environmental issues, as well as in the area of implementation of decisions which came out of international conferences and socio-economic fora. Against the background of optimizing and enhancing the effectiveness of UN development system, eliminating duplication in its work and increasing its yield on the ground, the importance of ECOSOC cannot be overstated. We therefore call on Member States and the Secretariat of the UN not just to take note, but also to implement the outcomes of the intergovernmental process to strengthen the Economic and Social Council under the aegis of the GA. In particular, we call for a close interaction between ECOSOC and the specialized institutions of the UN and the Bretton Woods financial institutions in the context of strengthening coordinating role by the Council. All of the decisions necessary for that are in the GA resolution 80/293A, which was agreed with the active role in it being played by your country. We note the contribution of Nepal made as President of the Council in successfully concluding the negotiations in 2026. Also, for the first time, the IACOSOC conducted the meetings agreed on the civil commitment, such as a special meeting on financial integrity and a meeting on modifying the credit ratings agencies. And these are specific evidence that the Council is implementing its mandate in the area of follow-up activity in the wake of major multilateral conferences. Now, turning to plans for 2027, we would like to address the new President of ICSOC, chairs and the Bureau of the Council and Member States, and talk about the need to abide by the principle of consensus in making decisions and in strictly following the mandates in UN documents, and take into account all the opinion of all UN members. In 2026-27, Russia will continue facilitating Constantly with complying with the intergovernmental nature of the Council, subsidiary bodies, functional commissions, in partnership with interesting delegations and UN bodies, including ECOSOC, we will intensify efforts so as to implement the 2030 SDG agenda. We would like to use this opportunity once again and assure the Presidency of Algeria that we stand ready to work on making sure that ECOSOC works effectively. I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [1:03:27]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malaysia.


Malaysia [1:03:46]:

Thank you, Madam President. Malaysia thanks Ambassador Lok Bahadur Thapa of Nepal, the Bureau and the Secretariat for their excellent work during the Council's 2026 session and welcomes the report of the ECOSOC. We recognize that the Council has continued to discharge its mandate amid growing financial constraints and an evolving institutional landscape. The reduction of the HLPF by one day is a reminder of how financial challenges can affect the organization's ability to deliver on its mandate. At the same time, the ongoing UN80 reforms present an opportunity to strengthen the efficiency of the UN system. It is important to ensure that these reforms preserve ECOSOC’s central role in coordinating the UN’s economic, social and development work. Malaysia welcomes the Council’s continued emphasis on accelerating SDG implementation. However, with most goals off track, some even regressing, and only four years left, the Council must lead the urgent push to get the SDGs back on track. For our part, following our third VNR in 2025, Malaysia looks forward to presenting its next VNR ahead of 2030 to share our progress. Beyond these efforts, Malaysia firmly believes that sustainable development cannot be separated from peace, justice, and human dignity. In this regard, we remain deeply concerned by the continued suffering of the Palestinian people and the ongoing destruction of civilian infrastructure and disruption to essential services, which undermines development prospects. We reiterate our unwavering support for the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, including their right to self-determination. From January, Malaysia will carry this principled position into the Council as its member. Madam President, Malaysia is honoured to return to the Council in January, having last served as a member from 2008 to 2010, including as its president in 2010. We are grateful for the trust and confidence placed in Malaysia by the wider membership. We will uphold the commitments made during our candidature. Malaysia will champion the perspectives of developing countries and the Global South, while remaining attentive to the priorities of all. We will advance practical consensus-based outcomes on poverty eradication, social development, women's empowerment, and digital transformation. Furthermore, we will work to ensure that the UN80 reforms strengthen, not weaken, ECOSOC's central role in the development pillar. Above all, and as reflected by the President of the General Assembly in his statement, Malaysia wants ECOSOC’s work to be felt even more strongly in the lives of people and communities on the ground. This will guide our work throughout our term in the Council. We look forward to working more closely in ECOSOC with Ambassador Ammar Ben Jamaa, President of the Council, the members of the Council, and Member States at large. I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [1:07:18]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Malaysia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Maldives.


Maldives [1:07:40]:

President, a country’s sovereign future depends on the choices it can make today. Whether to invest in schools or service debt, whether to protect its coastline before disaster strikes or rebuild afterwards, where young people can build their future at home. For the Maldives, these are development choices with lasting consequences for our sovereignty, security, and prosperity. International cooperation must expand our ability to make them. I thank the President of ECOSOC for the 2026 session for presenting the report and commend the Council’s work over the past year. On 1 January 2027, the Maldives will begin its first-ever term as a member of ECOSOC, 61 years after joining the United Nations. We thank Member States for their trust and support. We will bring practical experience, a commitment to partnership, and the perspective of a small island developing state to a Council whose decisions must reflect the priorities and aspirations of all countries. Our term will coincide with the 2027 SDG Summit and the final years of the 2030 Agenda. We must accelerate implementation today while preparing for what comes next. The Maldives will approach this responsibility through three priorities. First, fair finance that enables countries to invest in their future. High borrowing costs, declining access to affordable finance, and debt pressures are constraining the ability of developing countries to invest in their people and build resilience. The Seville Commitment provides a clear roadmap, and our priority must now be its full and timely implementation. The Maldives will work through ECOSOC to advance affordable, long-term, and concessional financing and support reforms that give developing countries a stronger voice in the international financial architecture. We will champion the dialogue on debt agreed in Seville to address gaps in the global debt architecture and advance practical solutions for debt sustainability. Having helped establish the Borrowers Platform, the Maldives will continue to advocate for stronger coordination and a greater voice for borrowing countries. Through ECOSOC's Financing for Development Forum, we must ensure that commitments made in Seville translate into concrete results. Countries in special situations need financial space and capacity to invest in their own future. Second, resilient development that responds to the special circumstances of SIDS. For the Maldives, healthy oceans sustain livelihoods, protect communities, and underpin our economy. Coral reefs, fisheries, tourism, water security, and coastal protection are all connected. Development cooperation must address them together. We will work to ensure that the Antigua and Barbuda agenda for SIDS is mainstreamed across the Council’s work from financing discussions to the oversight of the UN development system. We will also champion stronger follow-up on its implementation, while preserving a dedicated space at the HLPF to assess progress, address gaps, and mobilize partnerships for SIDS. Third, a United Nations development system that strengthens national capacity and ownership. National ownership must remain at the center of development cooperation. Cooperation frameworks should reflect national priorities, draw on national expertise, and align national planning and implementation frameworks. Resident coordinators and UN country teams must have the resources and flexibility to deliver effective, tailored support. Any reform of the UN development system must strengthen, rather than diminish, its presence and capacity to deliver on the ground. Digital transformation can help strengthen this delivery. Building on the Maldives 2.0 initiative, we will promote partnerships that improve public services, connect dispersed communities, and strengthen early warning and climate monitoring. Technology must expand opportunity, bridge geographic divides, and strengthen national capacity, supported by investment in infrastructure, skills, and institutions. We will also champion greater participation of women, young people, persons with disabilities, and elder persons in ECOSOC's deliberation and follow-up. Their experiences and perspectives must ultimately help shape the development policies that are intended to serve them. As we implement the outcomes of the recent ECOSOC and HLPF reviews, alongside the UN80 initiative, reform must be measured by results it delivers. We must reduce duplication, strengthen accountability, and ensure that the Council decisions translate into tangible improvements at country level. The 2027 SDG Summit must also set the foundation for an inclusive, member-state-led discussion on sustainable development beyond 2030. The Maldives will enter the Council ready to listen, contribute, and build partnerships across the region. Our ambition is an ICOSOC that turns shared commitments into fair finance, real delivery on resilient futures, a Council that strengthens every country’s ability to invest in its people and secure its own sovereign future. And I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [1:12:54]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the Maldives. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sierra Leone.


Sierra Leone [1:13:16]:

Madam President, Sierra Leone thanks you for convening this important joint debate and acknowledges the reports of the Secretary-General and the Economic and Social Council. At the outset, we thank Ambassador Lok Bahadur Thapa of Nepal for his successful tenure as President of the Council for the 2026 session and for presenting the report today. We further wish Ambassador Ammar Benjama of Algeria and the Bureau all the best as they steer the affairs of ECOSOC during the 2027 session. As we approach the final four years of the 2030 Agenda, we must confront the widening gap between our development commitments and their implementation. Persistent poverty, inequality, food insecurity, unsustainable debt, climate vulnerability, and inadequate development financing continue to undermine progress. particularly in Africa and other developing regions. The challenge before us is therefore not a shortage of commitments, but a shortage of resources, partnerships, and political will required to deliver them. Sierra Leone reiterates that the 2030 Agenda must remain our collective blueprint for sustainable development. Its implementation requires predictive accessible and affordable financing, meaningful technology transfer, capacity building, and a reformed international financial architecture that responds more equitably to the needs of developing countries. We urge all partners to translate this severe commitment into concrete action. Madam President, for Sierra Leone, sustainable development begins with national ownership and nationally determined priorities. Our medium-term national development plan 2024-2030 provides the framework for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals alongside the African Union's Agenda 2063. Through our five big game changers, we are prioritizing food security through Feed Saloon, human capital development, youth employment, technology and infrastructure, and public service transformation. Our Feed Saloon program is central to our ambition to transform agriculture, strengthen food systems, reduce dependence on food imports, and create economic opportunities, particularly for women and young people. Our commitment to creating 500,000 jobs by 2030, and with at least 30 percent representation of women, reflects our determination to harness the demographic potential of our country. We are equally investing in education, healthcare, digital transformation, accountable governance, and climate resilience. These priorities underscore our conviction that development must be people-centered, inclusive, and sustainable. We also recognize the importance of effective multilateral partnerships. In this regard, we were honored to serve alongside Albania as co-facilitators of the negotiations on the 2026 ECOSOC High-Level Political Forum Ministerial Declaration. This responsibility reflects our commitment to building consensus and advancing collective action towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Madam President, We must also strengthen the United Nations system to make it more effective, coherent, and responsive to contemporary global challenges. We support the UNHCR initiative and reforms that improve institutional efficiency, eliminate duplication, strengthen accountability, and enhance delivery. However, reform must go beyond administrative restructuring. It must also address the democratic deficit and structural inequalities within the multilateral system. For Sierra Leone, reform must also be understood within the broader imperative of reforming global governance, including international financial institutions and decision-making structures that shape the international economic order. The Pact for the Future provides an important framework for advancing this integrated vision of a more inclusive and representative multilateral system. We further underscore the urgency of addressing climate-related vulnerabilities. The Secretary-General's report on sea level rise is particularly relevant to Sierra Leone, where coastal erosion, flooding, and rising sea levels threaten communities. livelihoods, and development gains. We call for strengthening international cooperation, accessible climate finance, and support for adaptation and resilience. We also recognize the importance of education for democracy and ecosystem restoration as essential foundations for inclusive societies, accountable institutions, and sustainable development. Sierra Leone's experience of post-conflict recovery demonstrates the indispensable value of international solidarity and multilateral cooperation. We remain committed to a United Nations that delivers for all, guided by the principle of sovereign equality, international cooperation, and shared responsibility. As we approach the 2027 SDG Summit, Let us renew our commitment to move from promises to implementation, from exclusion to representation, and from fragmented action to genuine global solidarity. The credibility of multilateralism will ultimately be measured not by declarations we adopt, but by the difference we make in the lives of the people we serve. I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [1:20:11]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Sierra Leone. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa.


South Africa [1:20:34]:

Madam President, South Africa thanks the Economic and Social Council for its report and expresses its appreciation for the work undertaken by the Council in promoting sustainable development and strengthening international cooperation during the 2025-2026 period. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the Council's deliberation and outcomes, reflecting the collective commitment of Member States to advancing the implementation of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. With respect to sustainable development, South Africa welcomes the continued efforts of the Council and the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development to accelerate progress towards sustainable development goals. We share the concern that progress remains uneven and that urgent attention is required to address poverty, inequality, food insecurity, climate change, and development deficits, especially in developing countries. Regarding financing for development, South Africa reiterates the importance of the full, timely, and effective implementation of the commitments undertaken at previous international conferences on financing for development. South Africa supports the call for strengthened international cooperation to address the growing development financing gaps. We reiterated the need for reforms to the international financial architecture, enhanced access to concessional financing, debt sustainability measures, and increased investment and sustainable development, particularly for countries in Africa and the broader global South. South Africa further welcomes the call on coordination, management, and operational activities of the United Nations Development System. We attach great importance to a coherent, effective, well-coordinated, adequately financed UN development system that is responsive to national priorities and capable of supporting countries in achieving sustainable development On humanitarian affairs, South Africa commends ECOSOC's efforts to strengthen coordination in responding to humanitarian crises while addressing the root causes of vulnerability. We remain convinced that humanitarian, development, and peace-building efforts must be mutually reinforcing to build resilient societies and ensure sustainable peace and development. In this regard, South Africa supports enhanced engagement and cooperation between ECOSOC and the Peacebuilding Commission, with a view to strengthening policy coherence and advancing the nexus between peacebuilding and sustainable development. On science, technology, and innovation, South Africa welcomes the recognition of innovation and digital transformation as critical and catalytic enablers of accelerated implementation of development. We support enhanced technology transfer, capacity building, and international transfer to to ensure that developing countries can fully benefit from scientific and technological advances, including AI. Finally, South Africa welcomes the chapter on partnerships and multilateral cooperation, which underscored the importance of inclusive engagement among governments, international organizations, civil society, academia, and the private sector. Strong and effective partnerships remain indispensable for mobilizing resources, sharing expertise, and accelerating implementation of sustainable development goals. In conclusion, South Africa commends Ambassador Lok Bahur Tappa for his able stewardship of the work of ECOSOC during the 2025-2026 cycle, contributing to strengthening multilateralism and advancing a development agenda that is inclusive, equitable, and people-centered. As we approach the final years of the 2030 Agenda, we call for renewed political will, enhanced international solidarity, and concrete action to ensure that sustainable development becomes a reality for all, leaving no one behind. I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [1:24:45]:

I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Dominican Republic.


Dominican Republic [1:25:07]:

Thank you, President. The Dominican Republic thanks Ambassador Lok Bahadur Thapa for presenting the ECOSOC report that covers the work carried out under his presidency during the 2026 session. We also congratulate Algeria for assuming the presidency of the Council and assure them of our support. For my country, this was a period of particular responsibility. In our position as Vice-President to the Council, the Dominican Republic led a series of discussions on operational activities for development, whose results contributed to the negotiation of the follow-up resolution of the Broad Quadrennial Comprehensive Policy Review. that we had the honour to present to the Council. We also co-chaired, alongside Spain, the meeting on the transition from relief to development, and we thank all delegations, the Secretariat, the Deputy Secretary-General, for their trust and collaboration. We have drawn three conclusions from this experience. First, the Council is more useful when it talks about the results that it gets from countries. Dialogue with host governments, regional commissions, and country teams in the context of the UN80 initiative shown that member states expect a lighter system that is less fragmented and more able to help to mobilize investment and financing, including from international financial institutions. That's our first conclusion. Second conclusion, the council must fully exercise its coordination role. Dialogue on governance made it clear that we need coherent guidance between the Council and its Executive Boards, less duplication of mandates and reports, and a more clear link between what we agree here and what happens on the ground. Third conclusion is that Transition from relief to development cannot remain an isolated topic. In context of multidimensional crises, coordination between humanitarian action, development and peacebuilding must support the priorities defined by national authorities themselves. President, the 80th anniversary of the Council is also a time to recognise what must be improved. schedule is increasingly busy with series of meetings and special meetings that often overlap with one another, and This is a lot for small delegations. We frequently see votes on texts being used where traditionally these resolutions were adopted by consensus, and we can't always measure the effects or consequences of our decisions. More effective Council requires a more concentrated programme, results that can be measured, and renewed efforts to reach agreements. As a member of the Council until 2027, the Dominican Republic will continue to contribute to this objective with a constructive spirit. Thank you.


GA · Vice-President [1:28:01]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Dominican Republic. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bangladesh.


Bangladesh [1:28:24]:

Madam President, Bangladesh welcomes the report of ECOSOC. We congratulate Ambassador Lok Bahadur Thapa and the Bureau on their leadership of the Council at its 2026 session. We appreciate his initiatives, including convening of the special meeting on safeguarding energy and supply flows, addressing pressures on developing countries. With only four years remaining to achieve the SDGs, conflicts, climate shocks, debt burdens, and shrinking development finance constrain our progress. Affordable financing, technology transfer, and productive capacity development have remained essential. Commitments for ODA and climate finance and reform of international financials architecture, however, are still far from being fulfilled. In this context, the Council must use its convening power to translate the Sevilla commitment, the Doha Plan of Action, and other agreed outcomes into coordinated support for national priorities. Poverty eradication and gender equality must remain central to its work. Madam President, under agenda item 9, the Assembly adopted by consensus on 29th October, the resolution extending the preparatory period for Bangladesh and Nepal's LDC graduation by three years. The decision underscores the value of cooperation between this Council and ECOSOC. We thank all members for their solidarity, for Uruguay for leading the G77 and China, Qatar for its skillful facilitation of the resolution, and and Nepal for its partnership in coordinating for the G77 and China. We also thank OHR, LSS, and CDP for their support. Meeting the graduation criteria does not eliminate structural vulnerabilities. External shocks compounded by weakened institutional capacity have complicated our preparations. This extension gives us time to address these challenges and protect our development gains. Bangladesh is determined to graduate in 2029 through a smooth, sustainable, and irreversible transition. Graduation is a national aspiration built on decades of our people's hard work and a firm commitment of our government. Under Prime Minister Tarek Rahman, our government is pursuing economic recovery, governance reforms, and enhanced social security. Our roadmap prioritizes financial integrity, domestic resource mobilization, and export competitiveness. The national monitoring mechanism, chaired by our finance minister, brings together government agencies, the private sector, and civil society to guide implementation of our smooth transition. Sustained support from development and trading partners remains essential during the preparatory period and beyond. We value the resolution's encouragement to resident coordinators within existing mandates and resources to support implementation and follow-up, guided by national milestones. Madam President, 2027 is an important year for the Council, with its deliberations throughout the session set to inform the 2027 SDG Summit and an early commencement of the discussion of post-2030 development agenda. We welcome the review outcomes from ECOSOC and the High-Level Political Forum and call for their implementation. A stronger and more effective ECOSOC can enhance coordination across the development system, advance the 2030 agenda, and contribute to restoring trust in the UN system. Stronger links between deliberations, operational activities, and follow-up should deliver practical support for developing countries while preserving national ownership and the voluntary country-led character of national reviews. We support strengthening the office of the ECOSOC President and the Bureau through adequate institutional capacity and continuity, consistent with resolution 80/293. In the same vein, we reiterate that UN80 reforms must reinforce the development pillar and preserve support for countries in special situations. Finally, as a member of the Bureau of the ECOSOC for the 2027 session, Bangladesh remains committed to working with delegations to strengthen the Council’s effectiveness and deliver results for all. Thank you.


GA · Vice-President [1:33:03]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Bangladesh. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco.


Morocco [1:33:23]:

Madam President, the Kingdom of Morocco thanks the President of the Economic and Social Council for presenting the Council's 2025-2026 annual report. Morocco attaches great importance to the work of the Economic and Social Council. as the principal organ responsible for coordination, policy coherence, and follow-up to the major United Nations conferences and summits, from the 2030 Agenda to the Doha Declaration on Social Development, the Vienna Commitment, and the Pact for the Future. This year, the Council marks eight decades of existence. Eighty years ago, ECOSOC was established as a cornerstone of the United Nations. entrusted with coordinating international cooperation in economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. Today, and less than four years before 2030, ECOSOC serves as a crucial platform that brings together member states, the UN development system, civil society, and other key stakeholders. Acting as the connective tissue of the multilateral system, The Council promotes coherence, inclusivity, and partnerships in addressing global challenges and advancing sustainable development. The 2026 Council's reflections, from the coordination segment examination of lessons learned over eight decades to the deliberations of the humanitarian affairs segment and the high-level political forum and the operational activities segment, reaffirm that the relevance of ECOSOC is not simply inherited, It is continually earned. Madam President, it is precisely because Morocco attaches great importance to the Economic and Social Council that we wish to engage candidly with its report. My delegation would like to place on record, once again, before this Assembly, the position of the Kingdom of Morocco on the addendum to the report of the President of the Council on agenda item 14 on the Council's 2026 session, contained in document E/2026/55/Adendum 1. Although this addendum does not appear explicitly in the report before us, it is accessible among the documents linked to it. My delegation therefore wishes to recall the objection which was formally expressed at the Council’s management last July. And we would like to recall the following: First, on procedure. The addendum was circulated as an advanced and edited version less than three hours before the meeting at which the Council was to take action. That fell well short of the established practice that documents be made available within a reasonable time frame so that delegation can examine them. No such addendum has ever been submitted under this agenda item 14. It was introduced unilaterally, without consultation, and no clarification was provided on to its purpose. This new practice applied to a single document raises legitimate questions about transparency and about the need to respect the rules of procedures of the Council. Second, on substance, the addendum contains serious inaccuracies, particularly with regard to the figures used for the population of the Tindouf camps. The World Food Programme has never validated these figures as number of refugees, but only as a number of beneficiaries of food assistance. This was reiterated in a note verbal dated 2nd of September, 2026, addressed by the World Food Program to Morocco following this incident. This note of the World Food Program states, and I quote, "WFP requested that the information be amended to align with the WFP's corporately approved language on its operation in Algeria. WFP confirms that the figures 133,672 refers to beneficiaries assisted under WFP’s Interim Country Strategic Plan 2019-2026.” Madam President, as we are reflecting on the Council’s report and paving the way for a stronger and more effective Council, it is worth underlining that instrumentalization of the Council undermines its credibility. Accordingly, my delegation reiterates its formal objection to this addendum and states clearly that this Assembly’s action on the Council’s report cannot be interpreted as an endorsement of its content. And the note of WFP should also be added to the document linked to the report. I thank you, Madam President.


GA · Vice-President [1:38:12]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Morocco. We've heard the last speaker in the debate on these items. May I take it that the Assembly takes note of the report of the Economic and Social Council? It is so decided. The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of consideration of agenda items 9 and 12. The Assembly will resume its consideration in a joint debate of agenda item 12, entitled "Integrated and coordinated implementation of and follow-up to the outcomes of the major United Nations conferences and summits in the economic, social and related fields", and in this regard, begin its consideration of agenda item 12/1, entitled "Follow-up to the outcome of the Millennium Summit". Agenda item 126, entitled “Strengthening of the United Nations system”, and its sub-items (a) and (b), and agenda item 127, entitled “United Nations reform: measures and proposals”. The documentation under these items is listed in the Journal of the United Nations. Before proceeding further, I propose that the time limit for statements in this debate be five minutes. for individual delegations speaking in their national capacity, and seven minutes for statements made on behalf of a group of States. Is there any objection to this proposal? In light of the objection made by the Russian Federation, no speaking time limit will be applied to the debate on this item. Delegations are encouraged to keep to their statements and keep their statements brief, taking into account the suggested time limit. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Palau on behalf of the Alliance of Small Island States.


Palau · AOSIS [1:40:53]:

Madam President, Excellencies, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the 39 members of the Alliance of Small Island States, the states that are especially affected by sea level rise. AOSIS thanks the Secretary-General for his report, and we were honored that the report was launched in Palau. The report was a key input to the UN Declaration on Sea Level Rise, which this Assembly adopted by consensus on October 12. The report confirms that sea level rise is accelerating. In 2024 alone, the sea rose a record 5.9 millimeters. The acceleration is driven primarily by melting glaciers and the thermal expansion of warming oceans as a direct consequence of human-induced global warming. The report warns that at least half a meter of sea level rise is unavoidable, and that reaching tipping points would be globally catastrophic. In low-lying Pacific states, relative sea levels have risen more than twice the global average. As states that are literally defined by the ocean around us, the effect that sea level rise is having and will have on us cannot be understated. The impact will be life altering. It threatens the well-being of our peoples, communities, cultures, ecosystems, food security, livelihoods, and the traditional ways of life. What compounds the serious and irreversible impacts is the unfairness of the situation. The climate crisis is not of our making. Cities have contributed almost nothing to this global scourge. The most fundamental response to sea level rise is to strengthen global efforts to address climate change through deep, rapid, and sustained reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The objective must remain limiting the global average temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. We welcome the report's call to cut emissions by at least 43% by 2030 and 60% by 2035 relative to 2019 levels. There are limits to adaptation, and we welcome the report's call to scale up public finance for adaptation and loss and damage through grants and highly concessional instruments with priority to SIDS and least developed countries. We support its call for reform of the global financial architecture and for multilateral development banks and climate funds, including the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage, to simplify access and expand direct access. Madam President, on the legal dimensions of sea level rise, ours and the international community’s interpretations of international law are clear. Maritime zones established in accordance with UNCLOS and the rights and entitlements that flow from them shall continue to apply without reduction, notwithstanding any physical changes connected to climate change related sea level rise. Once established, a state will continue to exist and endure and maintain its status and effectiveness. The statehood and sovereignty of SIDS and our membership in the United Nations will continue. These interpretations were confirmed by the International Court of Justice and by the International Law Commission, and by our consistent and overwhelming practice as states. The UN Declaration on Sea Level Rise also affirms a number of widely held interpretations of international law. The report also addresses the protection of persons. A legal response that secures the state and its maritime zones, but not its people, is incomplete. States have an important duty in ensuring protection of their people, and continuity of statehood is necessary and fundamental for that protection to be implemented. The duty to cooperate is a legal obligation, as the International Court of Justice confirmed. It must respect the sovereignty of the affected state and rest on equity and CBDR. Madam President, the report gave this Assembly a clear assessment of the changes of sea level rise. Many of its recommendations remain to be taken forward. EOSIS will push for the mainstreaming of sea level rise into all relevant processes, as the Declaration encourages. We look forward to the Secretary-General’s report on advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice at the next session to continue discussion of sea level rise and to the next high-level meeting before the end of the 84th session. I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [1:45:28]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Palau. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union on behalf of the EU and its Member States.


EU · EU [1:45:51]:

Madam President, Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen, I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the European Union and its Member States. At the outset, we would like to thank the Secretary-General for the three reports. I will comment on them consecutively. On the first report, on challenges related to sea level rise, we welcome the Assembly’s consensual adoption last month of the first ever UN Declaration on Sea Level Rise. We consider that a historic first step. However, it is just the beginning of what is needed. As the latest SG report underlines, sea level rise will continue to accelerate this century. As such, it will continue to affect ecosystems, livelihoods, infrastructure, and cultural heritage, with serious implications for human security, societal stability, human rights, and sustainable development. Moving forward, four actions remain of crucial importance. First, we must address climate change as the main driver of sea level rise. This requires ambitious mitigation action and multilateral cooperation under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement. Second, we must prepare for impacts that can no longer be avoided and strengthen the resilience of our coasts and our communities. Third, our response must be based on the best available science. Fourth, Legal certainty, stability, and predictability must remain at the heart of our collective response. We stand ready to work with all Member States to make progress and to address sea level rise in all relevant forum. Madam President, regarding the second report on education for democracy, we recognize its important contribution to advancing the understanding of education as a fundamental pillar of democratic societies. We also welcome its emphasis on SDG target 4.7. The report's findings are sobering. Freedom of expression continues to decline globally. 75% of women journalists and media workers experienced online violence in 2025. The global out-of-school population has increased for seven consecutive years, reaching 273 million in 2024. We would therefore like to highlight four priorities: First, media and information literacy and digital citizenship, to build resilience against disinformation and hate speech. Second, the meaningful participation of young persons in all decisions that affect them. Third, support to teachers and educators who play an important role in democratic learning. Programs such as the EU's Erasmus+ bring millions of young persons, students, and educators together, building mutual understanding and a shared sense of democratic citizenship. Fourth. We call for the full implementation of the fifth phase of the World Programme for Human Rights Education and the 2023 UNESCO Recommendation on Education for Peace, Human Rights and Sustainable Development. We believe that investing in education for democracy is an investment in peace, resilience, and sustainable development. The EU stands ready to work with all partners towards this goal. Madam President, This brings me to the third report, on implementation of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. At the outset, we would like to stress that a healthy, stable, and resilient environment is a foundation for the effective delivery of all three UN pillars: peace and security, development, and human rights. The Secretary-General's report clearly shows that ecosystem restoration is indispensable for delivering on the 2030 Agenda, the Rio Conventions, the Paris Agreement, and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework in particular. Restoration is one of the most effective tools to address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. as well as the water crisis and land degradation, while strengthening food security, water resilience, livelihoods, and human well-being. We welcome the progress made so far under the Decade. At the midpoint, however, we recognize that accelerated implementation is needed in at least four areas. First, we must scale up restoration across all ecosystems, especially underrepresented ones. Second, We must strengthen monitoring, transparency, and accountability. Third, we must address the finance gap, including through the mobilization of private investments. Fourth, restoration action must be grounded in the best available science and must be inclusive. We remain committed to leading by example. Our Nature Restoration Regulation is the first legally binding framework of its kind anywhere in the world. It sets clear restoration targets through to 2050 and gives concrete effect to Target 2 of the Global Biodiversity Framework. We also underline the importance of stronger synergies across multilateral processes. In this regard, we welcome the progress made a few days ago at CBD COP17, including through the successful conclusion of the first global review of collective implementation. We must now accelerate our collective implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework and turn our global commitments into concrete results to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030. As part of this, the BBNJ Agreement will also be a crucial instrument for the restoration and the protection of marine ecosystems in areas beyond national jurisdiction. We therefore continue to encourage Member States to accede to the Agreement ahead of the first COP in January and we look forward to the agreement's effective implementation. Madam President, ecosystem restoration is not a cost. It is an investment in resilience, prosperity, security, and the well-being of present and future generations. We therefore call on all Member States and stakeholders to raise ambition and to accelerate the delivery of the Decade in the remaining years to 2030. I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [1:52:43]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the European Union. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Tuvalu.


Tuvalu [1:53:12]:

Madam Vice President, Tuvalu congratulates the Secretary-General for his report on challenges related to sea level rise and ways and approaches to address them. The report is a valuable contribution to the international community’s understanding of of one of the defining challenges of our time. It brings together the latest science, emerging legal developments, and practical policy responses in a single reference document. The report is particularly important because sea level rise poses existential threats to the cultures, livelihoods, and ways of life of many vulnerable States, including mine. It raises fundamental questions about habitability, sovereignty, statehood, and maritime entitlements. The report also confirms that sea level rise will continue to rise, with impacts already locked into the climate system through at least 2050, underscoring the urgency of action today. We would have liked the report’s release earlier in the negotiation stage of the political declaration on sea level rise. Nevertheless, it provides an important foundation for future work. It should serve as a living reference point for Member States. It should also be the baseline for regular technical updates from the Secretary-General on scientific advances and developments in the international legal framework, including evolving state practice and customary international law. Madam Vice President, several findings deserve particular attention. The report recognizes that small island developing states face disproportionate risk, despite contributing least to the causes of climate change. It highlights growing threats to habitability, freshwater resources, food security, infrastructure, livelihoods, and cultural heritage. It also makes clear that adaptation alone cannot keep pace under higher warming scenarios. In this regard, rapid emissions reductions remain essential. Exploring innovative financing approaches, including the use of special drawing rights, can help expand fiscal space to cope and implement tailored national adaptation plans for the most vulnerable countries. On the legal dimensions of sea level rise, it reflects growing international support for the continuity of statehood and sovereignty, and for legal stability, certainty, and predictability regarding maritime zones and maritime entitlements. despite physical changes to coastlines. It also highlights important developments arising from the International Court of Justice, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, and the International Law Commission. These developments matter. They reinforce the principle that sea level rise should not deprive States of their rights under international law. Madam Vice President, Tuvalu welcomes the report's recommendations on science, adaptation, finance, and legal certainty. We see particular importance in strengthening observation and monitoring systems, expanding access to adaptation finance, supporting early warning system, safeguarding cultural heritage, and advancing legal solutions that uphold self-determination, serving equality and the protection of affected populations. Many of these priorities are reflected in the historic political declaration on sea level rise, adopted by consensus by the General Assembly last month. Tuvalu is proud to have contributed to this historic achievement, working alongside fellow members of the Pacific Islands Forum EOSIS, CSID, and partners, demonstrating the strong and growing international commitment to addressing this issue. Looking ahead, discussions on sea level rise must continue across all relevant multilateral processes to progressively develop international law. This includes the General Assembly, climate change negotiations, ocean processes, Sustainable Development Forum, and others. In this regard, regular updates from the Secretary-General can help Member States track scientific developments, implementation progress, and the evolution of international law. Tuvalu looks forward to convening of the next high-level meeting on sea level rise during the 84th session of the General Assembly, which is the next opportunity to have an update updated report of the Secretary-General on challenges related to sea level rise and ways and approaches to address them. Madam Vice President, the challenges of sea level rise will stay with us, and it deserves our collective attention to it. I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [1:59:09]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Tuvalu. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Maldives.


Maldives [1:59:32]:

President, the United Nations has never lacked ambition. Its test today is whether it can turn ambition into results that people can see and states can sustain. The Maldives thanks the Secretary-General for the reports before us. Together, their focus on sea level rise, education for democracy, and ecosystem restoration demonstrates that the challenges we face transcend boundaries. Our response must do the same. For the Maldives, strengthening the United Nations begins with restoring trust in its ability to deliver. We support meaningful reform anchored in the Charter, guided by Member States, and assessed against results. And in that spirit, we wish to make three points. First, reform must begin where the United Nations meets people. A more coherent development system should provide timely, integrated support responsive to national priorities. For SIDS, the physical presence of the United Nations is indispensable. Regional arrangements and expertise on demand can enhance that presence, but they cannot replace sustained engagement on the ground. We ask that proposed changes be tested against their impact on country level with clear safeguards for SIDS. Second, better mandates must lead to better outcomes. The work of the General Assembly resolution 80/251 on mandate implementation review offers a path to reduce duplication, improve coordination, and review mandates against evidence. The Maldives supports practical tools that clarify objectives, responsibilities, costs, and results. Reviews should preserve intergovernmental ownership, accommodate the capacities of smaller delegations, and ensure that valuable mandates are strengthened rather than lost through indiscriminate consolidation. Third, reform must connect commitments to means of implementation. The outcomes of our major conferences, including the Abbas and the Seville commitment, need coordinated follow-through. This requires accessible finance, stronger UN country support, and transparent reporting that shows whether agreed commitments are reaching the countries they were designed to serve. The Secretary-General’s report on sea-level rise underscores the urgency of translating our commitments into concrete action. Sea-level rise affects development, human rights, livelihoods, and the legal foundations of statehood. The United Nations Declaration on Sea Level Rise, adopted by this Assembly on 12 October, affirms the importance of safeguarding sovereignty, statehood, and maritime zones. We now ask the UN system to translate that political commitment into coordinated support. The Maldives seeks a United Nations that is trusted because it delivers, inclusive because every country can shape its direction, and resilient because it adapts without abandoning those it serves. Let us judge reform by a simple measure: Does it expand the ability of every nation to shape its own future? And I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [2:02:31]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Maldives. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Australia.


Australia [2:02:56]:

Thank you, President. Allow me to express our gratitude to the Secretary-General and the UN system for their efforts in preparing these three reports. These are essential contributions to the work of the General Assembly. I will provide some brief reflections on behalf of Australia in relation to the Secretary-General's report on sea level rise. First, the report provides an important update on the state of sea level rise. drawing in insights from the field, as well as the World Meteorological Organization, UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. These are some of the many essential services of which the UN is a custodian, underpinning global prosperity, stability, and security. Second, we are pleased many of the recommendations made by the UN system have been taken forward through intergovernmental negotiations, which resulted in the adoption of the UN Declaration on Sea Level Rise by consensus last month. Through this declaration, the international community has built a new framework for enhanced global action through its four pillars and for accountability through practical follow-up. Third, We support the recommendation for coordinated multi-stakeholder review. The voices of those most affected must continue to be central to shaping decisions. The Pacific pre-COP demonstrated firsthand the impacts of climate change and sea level rise alongside adaptation, resilience, and climate leadership. The Takupaka Sola Declaration welcomed efforts under the UNFCCC to strengthen the role of ocean solutions across climate action. In these regards, we commend the leadership of small island developing states in driving progress. Colleagues, having worked closely with many of you during Australia and Cabo Verde's role as co-facilitators of the UN Declaration on Sea Level Rise, this agenda has demonstrated the General Assembly remains ready to speak with one voice and achieve meaningful consensus on critical global issues. We look forward to collectively meeting the challenge of sea level rise while preserving the dignity, rights, and future choices of affected communities. Thank you.


GA · Vice-President [2:05:09]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Australia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Russian Federation.


Russian Federation [2:05:31]:

Madam

President, today we are considering several agenda issues at the same time for the 81 sessions and a number of thematic reports submitted by the Secretary-General. To generalize, we can say that the general topic of our position on these issues consists of the following: the United Nations Organization should continue playing a central role In the system of global economic governance, it has a universal mandate for that and the unique possibility to ensure multilateral dialogue and for seeking compromises amongst member states. We advocate the sovereign development of states, respect for their national features, historic experience, and socioeconomic priorities. Taking this into account in the UN is very important. It's hard to overstate. Now, let me move on to the Secretary-General's report. We did read the report on the sea level rise, and we note that the assessments and recommendations in it were the basis for the intergovernmental discussion of these issues. And the outcome of that was the September 2026 political declaration on the sea level rise. We attach particular importance to the fact that the document is a consensus one, which shows that Member States can find mutually acceptable solutions even on such a complex and sensitive issue, which impacts the interests of a broad number of countries, first and foremost of SIDS and littoral states in general. Second, on the issue for the Ecosystem Restoration Decade. Here, we would like to say that work within the decade should be targeted at exchanging advanced technologies, strengthening the scientific and technical potential, disseminating effective national practices, and arriving at tangible results in the field. Russia is actively participating in the decade. We created in 2024 within the communities, chambers of the Russian Federation, the National Committee on Ecosystem Restoration. It brings together government agencies, scientific community, business, and NGOs. The committee ensures that the national expertise is taken to account in moving forward our national initiatives nationally and internationally. Amongst priority areas is restoring the ecosystems in the Arctic and in the Baikal. In 2025, we prepared a report on restoring the Arctic ecosystems. We're preparing a report on the Baikal ecosystems, which is to systematize a long-term work to restore the unique ecosystem of the Lake Baikal. We consider this practice of bringing various stakeholders here as very helpful in the attainment of SDGs nationally. The next point, on the report on education for democracy. We would like to underscore that our position when it comes to UNESCO recommendations of 2023, which is referred to in the document, remains the same. We advocate against using individual terms and concepts which are not contained in the charter documents of the organizations and are not supported by global majority. Let me also recall that youth participation in decision-making is something that should be carried out, taking into account age limitations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child and national legislation. I thank you.


GA · Vice-President [2:09:41]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of New Zealand.


New Zealand [2:09:58]:

New Zealand welcomes the opportunity to discuss the Secretary-General's report on challenges related to sea level rise and ways and approaches to address it. We convey our gratitude to the Secretary-General and all those involved in its preparation. and acknowledge the important opportunity it provided for key affected states and regions to present their perspectives and very real issues for consideration. We wish to reiterate that addressing sea level rise is an important priority for New Zealand. The Pacific region is facing critical threats from sea level rise, and is among the most vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change. We highlight the widespread support for the positions reflected in the declarations on sea level rise issued by the leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum. First, notwithstanding the impact of climate change-related sea level rise, our maritime zones, as established and notified in accordance with UNCLOS, and the rights and entitlements that flow from them, shall continue to apply without reduction. Second, our statehood and sovereignty will also continue, and the rights and duties inherent thereto will be maintained. Third, we bear an important responsibility, individually and collectively, for ensuring protection of our people, and have committed to protecting persons affected by climate change-related sea level rise. including with respect to human rights duties, political status, culture, cultural heritage, identity and dignity, and meeting essential needs. New Zealand welcomes the United Nations Declaration on Sea Level Rise, endorsed at the high-level meeting on 24 September. We see value in carrying the momentum forward, including by mainstreaming sea level rise into all relevant processes. In this regard, we were pleased to see the declaration decide to convene a further high-level meeting on sea level rise before the end of the 84th session of the General Assembly. Continuing to discuss sea level rise in existing processes, including the fourth UN Ocean Conference and the open-ended informal consultative process on oceans and the law of the sea, is therefore critical. Not only will this allow further platforms for important political profile and discussions of the critical underlying issues, but it will also continue to promote real and positive actions towards addressing them. We look forward to continuing constructive discussions on sea level rise at the UN. Thank you.


GA · Vice-President [2:12:49]:

I thank the distinguished representative of New Zealand. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Timor-Leste.


Timor-Leste [2:13:19]:

Madam Chair, Timor-Leste thanks the President of the General Assembly for convening this important discussion. We align ourselves with the statement delivered on behalf of AOSIS. We thank the Secretary-General for his report on sea level rise. For families living along vulnerable coastlines, sea level rise is not simply a scientific projection. It is a daily concern. Whether their homes will remain safe, whether fishermen can sustain their livelihood, and whether their children will inherit the communities they know today. The science is clear. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, global sea level could rise by approximately 15 to 30 centimeters by 2050. Around 900 million people live along low-lying coastlines exposed to coastal hazard. Behind these figures are families, communities, and future that deserve protection. Madam Chair, Timor-Leste, the ocean is part of our identity, history, and livelihood. However, coastal erosion, saltwater erosion, and flooding threaten our communities, freshwater resources, and marine ecosystem. As a small island developing state and least developed country, we contribute very little to global emission, but face disproportionate consequences. Despite limited resources, Timor-Leste is taking concrete action. Through our coastal resilience program, we have conserved and restored nearly 2,000 hectares of mangrove and wetlands. while community-based approaches, including our traditional Tarabandu practice, help protect coastal ecosystems. In 2023, Timor-Leste declared two additional marine protected areas, including Atauro Island and Samba Sembilan, supporting marine biodiversity and sustainable fisheries. We have also strengthened disaster preparedness, including installing early warning equipment in Dili. These efforts demonstrate our national commitment; however, they also show why international cooperation remains essential. Madam Chair, allow me to highlight three priorities. First, adaptation must reach vulnerable communities. We must restore mangroves, protect coral reef and seagrass ecosystems, strengthen coastal planning, and safeguard fresh water resources. Our nationality-determined contribution for 2026 to 2035 reinforces these priorities. We need sustained technical and financial support to expand solutions that are already working. Second, climate finance must become accessible, predictable, and effective. The United Nations Environment Programme estimated developing countries will require approximately 300 billion US dollars annually for adaptation by 2035. However, Available financing remains for below their need. We call for simplified access, greater grant base and concessional financing, and partnership that deliver practical result without creating unsustainable debt. Third, international law must protect the sovereignty and right of affected state. Sea level rise must not undermine established maritime rights or continuity of statehood. We welcome the International Court of Justice 2025 advisory opinion, which reinforces legal certainty regarding maritime baseline and statehood in the context of climate change. Madam Chair, responsibility for this crisis is unequal. Major emitters must lead in reducing emissions, strengthening climate finance, and keeping the 1.5 degree goal within reach. For Timor-Leste, this is about fairness, dignity, and responsibility to future generations. We are doing our part. However, national efforts alone cannot meet a global challenge. The international community has recognized the problem. What our people need now is implementation. Let success be measured not by the declaration we adopt, but by the home we protect, the livelihoods we sustain, and the future we secure. Thank you, Madam Chair.


GA · Vice-President [2:18:48]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Timor-Leste. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United States.


United States of America [2:19:14]:

Thank you, Madam Secretary. On behalf of the United States, I offer my best wishes to this Assembly. I would like to thank the Secretariat, and I wish to specifically thank the Permanent Representative of Nepal. and the Permanent Representative of Algeria for their leadership of the Economic and Social Council during the 80th and 81st sessions of UNGA, respectively. With respect to item 127, United Nations reform, and the Secretary-General’s reports, the United States wishes to make the following statements. Concerning the report on the implementation of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, our position is that practical environmental stewardship begins with accountable nation states, property rights, and technological innovation, not unenforceable top-down decrees. American land managers Farmers, ranchers, and innovators already deliver tangible conservation results without submitting our sovereign regulatory authority to an external bureaucracy. International initiatives, therefore, must respect national legal systems and domestic economic priorities. The Secretariat seeks to more than quadruple funding from $64 billion to nearly $300 billion annually by 2030 through pooled funds like the Multi-Partner Trust Fund. We believe this is unrealistic and it lacks fiscal accountability. Our taxpayers cannot serve as an open checkbook for vague multilateral mechanisms that funnel resources into overhead and administrative bureaucracies, rather than into verified results on the ground. Real conservation capital flows from private enterprise, enforceable contracts, and market incentives. The report also focuses on social media impressions and celebrity endorsements rather than measurable, verified outcomes. Of the 1 billion hectares pledged globally, three quarters remain untouched, and half of all participating countries did not or have not yet submitted verifiable data. Global benchmarks must rely on transparent, empirical data and real technological monitoring, not self-reported surveys and unvetted registries. With respect to the report on education for democracy, we believe the fundamental pillar of democracy is the unalienable right to freedom of expression, including the ability to speak, write, and debate freely as enshrined in our own United States founding principles and in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Any miscategorization of dissent or political debate as misinformation or disinformation or hate speech risks giving authoritarian regimes an excuse to police speech, silence political rivals, and dismantle civic space. True resilience in a democracy is cultivated by teaching rigorous debate, critical thinking, and open inquiry, not by allowing international bodies or censors to arbitrate allowable public discourse. The United States wishes to reiterate that education policy belongs exclusively to national and local authorities, which are accountable directly to students, families, and communities, not to external working groups. Frameworks that push amorphous concepts like socioemotional engineering can undermine genuine civic education that is rooted in constitutional self-governance and individual liberty. We reject efforts to mandate UN ideological templates across school systems worldwide. And finally, with respect to the report, on challenges, the challenges related to sea level rise. The United States supports legal stability and predictability regarding established maritime baselines and exclusive economic zones fully consistent with international law as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. The United States also understands the report to describe the existing general presumption of the continuity of statehood and underscoring the importance of continuity of statehood in the sea level rise context, but no additional new legal principles in the sea level rise context. Stable maritime entitlements must be preserved to prevent maritime disputes and ensure uninterrupted freedom of navigation and commerce. The United States rejects, however, the report's attempt to leverage sea level rise to mandate the elimination of conventional energy systems. Affordable, reliable energy drives the economic strength required to build durable seawalls, modern drainage systems, and resilient coastal infrastructure. Proposals to negotiate new binding treaties on sea level rise or invent sui generis legal regimes will only generate legal confusion and invite institutional overreach. Immigration controls and border security are sovereign domestic functions. The United States rejects attempts to bind nations to supranational mandates on these issues. Existing international law already provides adequate tools for sovereign cooperation without diluting national sovereignty or creating unbounded cross-border liabilities. Proposals for UN-directed loss and damage funds, special drawing right reallocations, and calls to, quote, "reform the global financial architecture," unquote, represent an effort to extract wealth from market democracies rather than solve physical engineering problems. Real protection against rising waters come from capital investment, commercial insurance risk pricing, local engineering and innovation, and practical early warning systems, not UN-administered financial facilities. The United States will continue to work bilaterally and with partners on deployable technological solutions, coastal engineering, and data sharing, while firmly protecting our taxpayers from open-ended financial liabilities. Thank you.


GA · Vice-President [2:26:24]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the United States. We have heard the last speaker in the debate on these items. The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda items 12, 121, 126, 126A and B, and 127. The meeting is adjourned.