National Statement delivered by H.E. Andreas von Uexküll, Deputy Permanent Representative of Sweden to the UN, at the Annual Session of the UNDP Executive Board, 4 June 2024
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Mr. President, Administrator, Excellencies,
Sweden wishes to congratulate the Administrator on his statement and report. At midpoint UNDP is on-track to meet the Strategic Plan objectives, having already met or exceeded several development milestones.
We appreciate the examples provided of results at country level. We note in particular UNDP’s support to governments to extend essential services to nearly 72 million people, the assistance provided to 439 million voters in 36 countries to participate in elections and the 28 million women that now have access to financial services.
Sweden appreciates the assistance UNDP has provided to Ukraine. This includes important support in sustaining energy supplies, aiding in debris removal, humanitarian mine-action, and establishing e-services for over 21 million people. Efforts for which Sweden has provided additional funds in 2023.
We are also glad to announce the recently decided support of 150 million Swedish crowns to address Ukraine’s needs for a more diverse energy mix.
We are encouraged by your commitment to the evolution of the UN development system.
With the UNDP’s first-hand knowledge and experience on UN coordination, we expect you to lead and fully integrate this in your activities and to seek ways to increase effectiveness and efficiencies of UN operations on the ground.
Sweden has zero tolerance for not acting on corruption. We take note of UNDP’s robust risk management frameworks. At the same time, we see a need for further reflection of what risks UNDP itself is facing, beyond quality funding.
Sweden continues to adhere to the principles outlined in the Funding Compact with our ODA at 0,9 percent of GDI. We are also glad to have exceeded the target on core funding with a good margin. It is critical for UNDP to find ways to translate flexible funding into tangible development.
We also want to underline the importance of engaging core funding donors in partnership dialogues at all levels, including in countries where there is no earmarked contribution.
Finally, we wish to take the opportunity to convey our sincere thanks to ASG Ulrika Modéer for her tireless efforts and engagement at UNDP.
Thank you!