Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammedreminded that solutions are needed as leaders come together in times of mounting crises and increasing debt burdens in the South.
You are called upon to provide solutions to people affected by climate chaos and the specter of conflict and uncertainty. “That ranges from outright war in your communities to violent extremism, criminality or violence against women,” said Ms Mohammed.
With the deadline for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) approaching in 2023, Ms Mohammed warned that leaders are essential to get progress “back on track”.
“We need your energy, initiatives and ideas more than ever to make the Sustainable Development Goals a reality in people’s lives,” the deputy chief said.
Local leadership
She further stressed the need for local-level leaders, including mayors, as 70 percent of the global population is expected to live in cities by 2050.
Ms Mohammed also noted that local leadership is currently helping to bring about transformative change by, among other things, tackling the climate crisis, improving access to affordable energy and promoting fairer communities.
“We see the fruits of your determination in breakthroughs on challenges once considered unsolvable.“, said Mrs. Mohammed.
Yet there is still much to be done.
A call for more
The UN deputy director urged city leaders to continue the work that has contributed to global success, while stressing the need for fairer and more accessible service delivery systems and more climate solutions for cities.
She continued: “We need strong local democracy with peace at its core; and we need more resilient communities with early warning systems to prevent disasters.”
Ms Mohammed also called for greater ambition from leaders to achieve the SDGs to “create a world that is more prosperous, equal and sustainable for everyone, everywhere.”