Excellencies,

Distinguished Delegates,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the European Union as a donor. 

In the context of UN@80 — as the Organization marks its 80th anniversary — we reaffirm our collective commitment to a renewed global framework grounded in the principles and values of the UN Charter. The EU continues to promote good governance and the rule of law, justice and accountability, international humanitarian law, and human rights, including gender equality.

As we look toward 2030 and beyond, the European Union is proud of its longstanding partnership with the United Nations Development Programme. Our collaboration spans more than 140 countries, with joint initiatives amounting to close to EUR 2 billion. Together, we have worked to expand access to clean energy, strengthen democratic governance, promote sustainable finance, and support livelihoods in fragile and conflict-affected settings.

As the Executive Board turns its attention to the Strategic Plan for 2026–2029, the EU welcomes UNDP’s continued responsiveness to an evolving global landscape. We support a Strategic Plan that builds on UNDP’s comparative strengths while maintaining a sharp focus on country-level delivery, measurable results, and long-term development impact. In doing so, it must ensure that no one is left behind, particularly for those in vulnerable contexts.

The EU supports a Strategic Plan that reinforces multilateralism and contributes meaningfully to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the Pact for the Future. In this regard, we encourage greater alignment between UNDP programming and global initiatives, including through enhanced cooperation with the EU’s Global Gateway strategy.

We also wish to recall the importance of upholding meaningful standards and inclusive consultations in the development of Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks (SDCFs). It is essential that these frameworks align not only with the fundamental principles of the UN Charter, but also actively support national progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. 

In this perspective, the European Union has raised questions with some SDCFs and CPDs, emphasizing that transparency must remain a cornerstone of the process, particularly in the consultation and development phases. As outlined in the EU-UN Joint Guidance, close cooperation and inclusive engagement are indispensable to ensuring both the legitimacy and effectiveness of SDCFs and CPDs.

More broadly, and in the context of the UN80 Initiative, we expect a deepening and acceleration of ongoing efforts to reduce fragmentation and eliminate duplication, resulting in a more efficient and agile UN system at the service of the SDGs. We support increased alignment, integration, and collaboration among UN entities, in line with the One UN approach and under the leadership of the UN Resident Coordinator. The EU remains a reliable strategic partner and donor, committed to ensuring that the UN system is responsive, accountable, and fit for the future. 

Thank you.