Tenth Session of the UN Technology Bank Council Reviews 2025 Progress and Sets Priorities for 2026

The strong commitment to good governance remains a vital pillar in the operations of the United Nations Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries (UNTB). In this regard, the Tenth Session of the Council of the United Nations Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries was held virtually on 11–12 December 2025. This was the third such gathering in the calendar year. The meeting reviewed progress made during 2025 and discussed and agreed on priorities for 2026. The overriding emphasis for the institution, as mandated by its Council, is to leverage science, technology, and innovation to help drive transformation in the 44 Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

The meeting was chaired by Professor Hasan Mandal, Rector of Istanbul Technical University, with opening remarks delivered by the United Nations Secretary-General’s representative on the Council, the Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States, Ms. Rabab Fatima.

During the session, the Council reviewed and adopted the 2025 Report on the work of the institution, reflecting on achievements made under the Strategic Plan 2025–2027. Particular attention was given to the continued importance of data, analysis, and evidence in helping to shape priorities at the country level in an environment of acute financial constraints faced by LDCs. Consequently, the importance of UNTB’s nationally owned and driven Technology Needs Assessments (TNAs) continued to be of high value to UNTB’s client countries. The importance of supporting LDCs in the development of projects following the completion of TNAs, including for private sector financing, was emphasised. Capacity building in the area of science, technology, and innovation was also recognised as a critical area requiring ongoing support for LDCs.

The Council also stressed the need for UNTB to continue building partnerships to deliver results for LDCs. In addition, the Council considered and approved UNTB’s work programme and budget for 2026. This work programme will focus on working closely with client countries in undertaking nationally owned and driven TNAs; boosting capacities in high-priority areas of technology and innovation; and responding to the knowledge needs of client countries by connecting their institutions and personnel to Centres of Excellence that are leading the development and rollout of cutting-edge technologies and innovations that are transforming lives.

The meeting concluded by recognising and expressing deep appreciation to the host country, Türkiye, for its continued steadfast support to UNTB and the development agenda of LDCs.

Media contact: Ms. Elcin Torlak, (elcin.torlak@un.org, tbldc-media@un.org)

About the UN Technology Bank  

The UN Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries is dedicated to enhancing the contribution of science, technology and innovation for sustainable development in the world’s 44 least developed countries. The least developed countries are low-income countries confronting severe structural impediments to sustainable development. They are highly vulnerable to economic and environmental shocks and have low levels of human assets.  

The UN Technology Bank supports national and regional technological efforts in the least developed countries, reinforcing partnerships across sectors and helping nations identify and use appropriate technologies to transform their economies and improve livelihoods.
Website: http://www.un.org/technologybank