NEW YORK — Conflict, climate change and growing inequality are putting progress on sustainable development under pressure. Minister Arthur Dowers highlighted these challenges at the United Nations, stressing that no country can address them alone.
Dowers spoke on behalf of the Kingdom of the Netherlands at a high-level meeting marking the 40th anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development, during the 81st UN General Assembly.
He emphasized that sustainable development must go hand in hand with respect for all human rights: civil, political, economic, social and cultural. He reaffirmed the commitment of Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and the Netherlands to the 2030 Agenda and a just, inclusive and sustainable future.
Dowers also announced that the Kingdom will present its third Voluntary National Review of progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2027. Young people, the private sector and civil society will participate in the process.
He additionally expressed support for reforms to make the UN more representative and effective, calling for renewed international commitment to ensuring that everyone can shape their own future.