New York, 14 October 2025 – The Director of the United Nations Regional Commissions New York Office (RCNYO), Ms. Thilmeeza Hussein, addressed the General Assembly’s Second Committee this week, emphasizing the crucial role of regional cooperation in accelerating the 2030 Agenda.
During the general debate on “Five years to 2030 – Multilateral solutions for sustainable development” on 9 October, Ms. Hussein delivered a statement on behalf of the five Regional Commissions—ECA, ECE, ECLAC, ESCAP, and ESCWA. She underlined that with only five years remaining, “the time for pledges has passed—what is needed now is a decisive shift from commitment to action.” She highlighted the Commissions as the UN’s regional engines of implementation, supporting Member States through:
scaling up sustainable finance and investment;
advancing green and digital transitions for inclusive growth; and
deepening regional cooperation on shared challenges.
Ms. Hussein also presented the Secretary-General’s report on “Combating Sand and Dust Storms” under Agenda Item 18 (Sustainable Development) on 14 October. She noted that across all regions, the Commissions are advancing integrated approaches to climate action, environmental protection, and resilience-building, with targeted support to countries in special situations such as Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Initiatives range from ECLAC’s work on climate-resilient investment frameworks in the Caribbean to ESCWA’s efforts to strengthen drought resilience and sustainable food systems in the Arab region. Ms. Hussein also underscored that ESCAP and ESCWA serve as Co-Chairs of the UN Coalition on Combating Sand and Dust Storms, advancing coordinated, science-based regional responses to this growing transboundary challenge.
“The Regional Commissions bridge global commitments and regional realities,” Ms. Hussein concluded. “Through solidarity and practical cooperation, they help translate global aspirations into concrete action for sustainable and equitable development.”
The Regional Commissions New York Office (Mr. Dominic Sofe) also delivered a statement during the General Debate on agenda item 18 on Sustainable Development, underscoring the Regional Commissions’ support to countries in implementing the 2030 Agenda through integrated approaches to climate action, environmental protection, and targeted support to countries in special situations, including Small Island Developing States.
RCNYO statement General Debate
RCNYO statement introduction SG report Sand and Dust Storms
RCNYO statement agenda item 18
