Madam President,
I wish to thank you, Madam President, for convening today’s meeting, and the Secretary-General for the progress report and the whole team for the incredible effort made on the UN80 Initiative. We align ourselves with the statement by the European Union and wish to offer some remarks in our national capacity.
Italy fully supports the UN80 Initiative and its objective of enhancing system-wide efficiency to deliver greater impact on the ground.
The report presented today is a further step in the right direction. We support the Secretary-General’s call for stronger engagement in implementing the UN80 Initiative. We also look forward to receiving data and transition planning necessary to an informed decision-making. In this regard, we appreciate the distinction between issues ready for decision and those requiring further consultation. A clearer pathway is essential, as we share the responsibility of advancing this process.
Madam President,
While there is still work to be done, we value the progress achieved so far.
On Workstream 1, Italy supports targeted savings in the UN budget when justified by evidence and aimed at eliminating unnecessary expenditures. At the same time, we oppose cuts that undermine the capacity of UN structures and peacekeeping missions to effectively implement their mandates. Moreover, we deem essential that the International Civil Service Commission be appropriately involved in the UN80 streamlining efforts.
On Workstream 2, the adoption of the Resolution on Mandates represented a key achievement. We hope that all Member States and UN bodies – not only the General Assembly – will implement its operational provisions. Within the relevant Working Group, Italy continues to contribute to identifying solutions to duplications and inefficiencies, with the Secretariat’s support.
As for Workstream 3, while we are not opposed in principle to merger proposals, such initiatives must be evidence-based, clearly demonstrate their added value, and be implemented without undue haste. We would oppose mergers – particularly within the training and research pillar – that fail to strengthen or that risk diminishing existing centers of excellence that are financially sound and operating effectively.
Italy remains committed to advancing the UN80 Initiative, and you can count on our support.
I thank you.
