Focused on SDG 6 and SDG 11
A Swiss delegation is actively participating in the United Nations’ 2023 High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) in New York, held from July 10 to 19.
During this crucial preparatory event for the 2023 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Summit in September, Switzerland is placing special emphasis on SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation for all) and SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities).
Event on Transboundary Water Management for Sustainable Development
As part of its commitment to sustainable development, Switzerland organized an event on transboundary water management on July 12. The event aimed to showcase the power of cooperation in this domain to drive sustainable development and foster peace.
Switzerland has been instrumental in setting up a regional platform in Central Asia to promote political dialogue, better water resource management, and ease tensions between different users at regional and national levels.
Recognized Expertise in Transboundary Water Management
Switzerland, sharing six rivers and four lakes with its neighbors, is internationally recognized for its expertise in transboundary water management. The country initiated the Blue Peace initiative in 2010, combining diplomacy with development cooperation.
Additionally, in 2022, Switzerland played a key role in establishing the Transboundary Water Cooperation Coalition, which includes more than 40 states and non-state actors.
Mid-term Assessment of the 2030 Agenda
The HLPF, organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), serves as a significant milestone in preparation for the 2023 SDG Summit during the UN General Assembly’s 78th session.
During this summit, heads of state and governments of all UN member states will adopt a political declaration outlining additional measures to implement the 2030 Agenda. It marks the halfway point in the timeline for achieving the SDGs since their adoption in 2015.
Key Issues in the Political Declaration
At the HLPF, negotiations for the political declaration are already underway, with a focus on increasing investments in the Global South to achieve the SDGs. Switzerland is advocating for a pivotal role for non-state actors from various sectors, including business, science, and civil society, alongside state actors.
Swiss Commitment to Implementing the 2030 Agenda
Markus Reubi, Federal Council delegate for the 2030 Agenda and head of the Swiss delegation to the HLPF, emphasizes Switzerland’s dedication to reinvigorating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.
The 2023 Sustainable Development Report by the UN highlights the need for additional measures to achieve the SDGs fully.
Switzerland has a determination to accelerate progress both at the national and global levels and ensure a just and resilient transition.
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
The 2030 Agenda encompasses 17 SDGs and 169 targets that address a wide range of challenges, including poverty, education, food security, gender equality, marine resource protection, terrestrial ecosystem preservation, and access to clean energy.
The Federal Council views the 2030 Agenda as the most suitable framework to tackle humanity’s common challenges.
As Switzerland continues its efforts at the UN’s High-level Political Forum, it remains committed to fostering sustainable development through transboundary water management, investment in the Global South, and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
The nation is dedicated to achieving the 2030 Agenda, setting a lasting impact on sustainable development and peace globally.
Sources: THX News & Swiss Federal Council.
