Remarks by Ambassador Hahn choong-hee
Deputy Permanent Representative of the Republic of Korea to the United Nations
Interactive Dialogue with Major Groups and other stakeholders
20 May 2015, New York
Thank you, Mr. Co-facilitator,
Through last two days discussion, consensus seems to be emerging that the follow-up and review mechanism should be robust, inclusive and transparent, while being a state-led and voluntary process. We need a universal framework, taking into account their different capabilities and responsibilities.
Without doubt, the national level is a fundamental component of the mechanism, as it encourages government responsibility to their citizens in implementing the Development Agenda. In the national level, progress and achievements as well as challenges should be addressed with participatory contributions from diverse stakeholders.
But this should not mean limiting accountability to the national level. The mechanism must be complemented by incorporating regional and global reviews at the High Level Political Forum (HLPF). A periodic peer review mechanism at the global or regional level needs to be seriously considered.
As WWF indicated, Thematic review will be another critical component to chart global progress on the sustainable development framework to help identify challenges and bottlenecks and to mobilize action to address them. It will rely on relevant coordination and review platforms where various actors in and outside the UN will work together.
I would like to emphasize the importance of participation and inclusiveness in the institutional aspect. On the other hand, however, the importance of communication in the follow-up and review process should also be emphasized. Enhancing the awareness and bringing the attention of the general public throughout the whole process, is another key to successful implementation. Without feedback based on proper awareness from the public, the outcomes of the review cannot be duly fed into policies and actions of governments and other relevant stakeholders.
The media and other communications channels will be valuable partners to government and civil society in order to encourage participation, transparency and accountability. Particularly the participation and engagement of youth, and most isolated and marginalized groups is crucial to ensure no one leave behind.
Addressing the quality of development cooperation is another valuable means of ensuring accountability. Principles of effective development cooperation – including country ownership, results focus, inclusive partnerships, and transparency and accountability through, such as, GPEDC – can help guide our efforts in this regard.
In conclusion, the Republic of Korea is ready to listen to valuable voices of all stakeholders including civil society and work together for our common noble objectives.
Thank you.
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