National statement at the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development

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Chairperson, excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

Sweden aligns itself with the statement made by the European Union.

The 2030 Agenda remains our shared roadmap for sustainable development. Yet, progress is too slow, and the global context increasingly challenging.

Wars, conflict and insecurity continue to have serious repercussions for the implementation of the SDGs. Poverty reduction has slowed. Humanitarian needs remain high. Climate change is accelerating. Democratic values, human rights and the rule of law are under pressure in many parts of the world.

As needs grow and resources are stretched, financing must be at the heart of our response. Building on the Sevilla Commitment, we must use all available sources of financing – public and private, domestic and international – more effectively to bridge the financing gap.

Sustainable development must be driven by countries’ own leadership and reform efforts. National ownership also entails responsibility to ensure that reforms are grounded in human rights, the rule of law, gender equality, good governance and anti-corruption. These principles are fundamental to enabling investment at scale.

Private capital, trade and investment are essential to creating jobs, growth and long-term sustainable development. ODA can play an important role when used catalytically: to mobilise additional resources, reduce risk and strengthen synergies.

Sweden is a dedicated and reliable partner. Sweden is one of only four countries that provide 0.7% of GNI as ODA. Together with the EU and its Member States, we are the world’s largest provider of Official Development Assistance. We also contribute significantly to climate finance, humanitarian assistance, development banks and the UN system. We call for broader and stronger contributions from all partners.

Friends,

Financing, reforms and partnerships will only deliver if supported by institutions that are effective, coordinated and fit for purpose. This is true at the national level, and it is equally true for the multilateral system.

A weakened UN development system would risk reversing hard-won progress. We need a UN system that can support countries in implementing the 2030 Agenda. Sweden therefore welcomes the Secretary-General’s UN80 initiative, which aims to strengthen the UN system by enhancing efficiency and effectiveness.

Sweden reaffirms its commitment to the United Nations and to effective multilateral cooperation for sustainable development. In a time of global uncertainty, Sweden will remain a dedicated and reliable partner. Together, we can – and must – accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Thank you.