Background
The Webinar on Voluntary National Reviews in the Arab Region took place from 27 to 28 October. It focused on dialogue and peer learning to enhance VNR processes in Arab states, seeking to accelerate implementation in the context of the Decade of Action. As the first in the cycle of regional meetings for 2021, it took stock of the experiences of Arab countries that presented VNRs in 2020 and inform preparations of countries undertaking such processes for 2021. Through interactive panel discussions, the workshop was an opportunity for peer-learning about experience during and after the VNR process.
The webinar was organized by ESCWA, in partnership with DESA’s Division for Sustainable Development Goals and the Office for Intergovernmental Support and Coordination, and the League of Arab States (LAS). It continues the series of meetings and workshops organized for the Arab region by DESA, ESCWA, and LAS. To date, 19 countries from the Arab region have conducted VNRs, including three which have carried out a VNR twice. Most recently, Comoros, Libya, Morocco and the Syrian Arab Republic presented their VNRs at the 2020 High-Level Political Forum (HLPF).