At UN Headquarters recently, DESA’s Under-Secretary-General Wu Hongbo highlighted the crucial role of public administration in reaching the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the post 2015 development agenda. “We want to acknowledge the significant task of public administration, which is vital for sustainable development”, Mr. Wu said.

His statement to the 12th Session of the United Nations Committee of Experts on Public Administration (CEPA), which took place on 15 to 19 April, on the theme “The role of responsive and accountable public governance in achieving the Millennium Development Goals and the post-2015 development agenda”, highlighted the relevance of challenges facing public administration, especially in the creation of a favorable environment to foster economic growth, social cohesion and environmental protection – the three pillars of sustainable development.

He also acknowledged the work of the 24 experts of the Committee, who had gathered from more than 20 countries to participate in the session. Mr. Wu said that DESA wanted to highlight the efforts of those serving in the UN Public Service, and “looks forward to further collaboration in building pathways to reach the internationally agreed development goals”.

Opening the Committee’s session a few days earlier, ECOSOC President Néstor Osorio also underscored the importance of a citizen-centric approach and the vital role of public administration in these efforts. He emphasized the possibilities brought on by rapid technological advancements. “We are given an opportunity to listen to people and to partner in sustainable development on an unprecedented scale,” he said, mentioning initiatives promoting e-participation, e-governance and e-services.

“Governments are increasing efficiency and transparency by providing more information online, simplifying administrative procedures, and streamlining bureaucratic functions. As of today, some 25 per cent of the 193 United Nations Member States have embarked on Open Government Data initiatives,” Mr. Osorio said.

Established by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), CEPA is responsible for supporting the work of ECOSOC concerning the promotion and development of public administration and governance among Member States, in advancing the United Nations Development Agenda. Meeting once a year, it also provides guidance to DESA’s Division of Public Administration and Development Management (DPADM), through an annual review of its work programme.