Urgently transforming institutions for a greener, more inclusive, and more resilient world

Five years ago, in July 2018, the UN ECOSOC endorsed the 11 principles of effective governance for sustainable development. These principles were developed by the UN Committee of Experts on Public Administration (CEPA) and focus on three governance pillars: effectiveness, accountability and inclusiveness. Today, at a time of multiple interconnected crises, and with trust on our institutions at an all-time low, there is an urgent need to apply these principles and transform public institutions to ensure that no one is left behind.

In its forthcoming 22nd session at UN Headquarters in New York from 27 to 31 March, CEPA will discuss key aspects of the theme “Urgently transforming institutions for a greener, more inclusive and more resilient world at a time of multiple crises”.

The 22nd session will focus on  institutional mechanisms for providing support to address climate change; ways to respond to the effects of climate change in institution-building efforts in fragile countries and countries emerging from conflict; the application of the UN principles of effective governance for sustainable development for the achievement of the SDGs; ways to reinvent public sector workforce training and institutional learning towards changing mindsets in the public sector; public financial management in times of emergency and implications for budget credibility; and ways to stimulate public sector innovation through digital technology and measure the impact of digital government.

The Committee will also engage in a dialogue with voluntary national review countries and voluntary local review cities to promote peer exchange on experiences and promising practices in implementing SDG 16 – Peace, justice and strong institutions and SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals. CEPA also plans to hold a dedicated consultation with observers, including youth organizations.

The Committee will adopt an input to the High-Level Political Forum in July and a draft resolution for ECOSOC. The 22nd Session of CEPA will be streamed live via UN Web TV.

For more information: UN Committee of Experts on Public Administration (CEPA)