Multi-stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the SDGs

– As delivered –

Statement by H.E. Mr. Miroslav Lajčák, President of the 72^nd Session of the UN General Assembly, at the briefing on the Multi-stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the SDGs

Excellencies, dear colleagues,

I am pleased to convene this briefing on the Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the SDGs. Let me start by commending, Ambassador Kamau and Dr. Turekian on their valuable contribution to the first two sessions of the Forum. Congratulations to Ambassadors Hoshino and Sandoval on being appointed to chair the Third Forum.

I also welcome Her Excellency, Ambassador Chatardová, President of the ECOSOC, Mr. Liu, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, and Ms. Garza Rodriguez, Representative of UNCTAD.

I want to highlight two points before inviting our distinguished panellists to brief us.

The first is that the Forum has been a success. This needs to continue.

This will contribute to implementing the 2030 Agenda and the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. Many crucial elements of the means of implementation are being advanced by the Forum: promoting partnerships through networking and matchmaking; facilitating interaction of a wide range of stakeholders; and directly engaging young people. It must continue to be an important component of the Technology Facilitation Mechanism established by the 2030 Agenda.

These tools are fundamental to ensure that sustainable development becomes a universal reality. Making the benefits of science, technology and innovation more widely available is both an enabler and product of sustainable development. The Technology Bank for Least Developed Countries is another good example.

Science, technology and innovation can be forces for good. At the same time, advances can present challenges. So, for my second point, I want to emphasise the importance of addressing the challenges that arise from the rapid development of technology.

While benefiting from breakthroughs and discoveries, or comforts and efficiencies, we cannot afford to overlook potentially negative effects. Increasing automation in the production workplace; the speed of the spread of information – whether accurate or not; questions surrounding data protection and privacy; the use of drones in commerce, recreation or military activities. These are among the issues, which though not naturally problematic, require adequate consideration.

As innovation and technology spread, we must avoid perpetuating the digital divide. Instead, we must work to ensure their widest possible enjoyment by people everywhere. We should also ensure that women and girls are empowered to fully benefit from and contribute to science and technology.

Excellencies,

I have committed to using my Presidency to sustain the momentum of SDG implementation. Over the remainder of the Session, the events I will convene provide useful opportunities to demonstrate how science, technology and innovation can positively contribute to a decent life for all, a sustainable planet, and a peaceful society.

I also intend to reach out to stakeholders in tech-hubs around the world. These innovators and entrepreneurs are at the forefront of the technology revolution. Their engagement is key to our efforts, both as governments and the United Nations, to meet the development aspirations of people around the world.

I call on you to maintain your enthusiasm and continue to support the Forum, and all efforts to harness the power of science, technology and innovation in the service of humanity.

I thank you.