Informal consultations on follow-up and review
of the 2030 Agenda at the global level
28 April 2016
Statement by the Stakeholder Group on Ageing on “elements” paper
Distinguished Co-Facilitators, thank you for the opportunity to make a contribution to the elements paper.
My name is Frances Zainoeddin, representing the Stakeholder Group on Ageing. I have 7 points.
1. Without accurate demographic information and disaggregated data, we will not know who is left behind. Reference to para. 74 of the 2030 Agenda on the follow-up and review processes is essential. We recommend that all countries establish baseline disaggregated data to implement para. 74 and identify resources for this so that the targets can be measured and assessed.
2. We fully support review of goal 17 annually, because it is essential to review the means of implementation, to determine where assistance, including financial resources, is necessary, and where specific attention should be given to ensure that no one is left behind.
3. We propose a recommendation that all 17 goals be reviewed by the HLPF based on national and regional reporting, within a four-year period. This would provide a better understanding of trends and of expected results by 2030.
4. Submission by States of national reviews at least twice between now and 2030 seems to us insufficient. Should that stand, all reports submitted on a regular basis to the many intergovernmental bodies throughout the whole UN system, including the functional commissions, must address implementation of the 2030 Agenda. This will enable the HLPF to capture that information for making recommendations and taking decisions.
5. We agree that the UN system should support developing countries in their capacity-building. But the United Nations must be provided with additional resources, if Member States are not prepared to reduce or abolish some existing mandated activities.
6. NGOs and civil society have a track record in reaching those left furthest behind, acting as catalysts, communicators, implementers and partners, as well as watchdogs. Since Major Groups and Other Stakeholders, including the private sector, are required to report to the HLPF, in accordance with para. 89 of the 2030 Agenda, we propose that there be a standing item on the HLPF agenda on Major Groups and Other Stakeholders’ participation in implementation of the 2030 Agenda. This would allow useful input for discussions on evidence to be submitted by non-State actors.
7. We support a recommendation on the specific role of HLPF when it meets under the auspices of the General Assembly, including expected content of its declaration, to avoid duplication of recommendations of the HLPF held under the auspices of ECOSOC.
In closing, the Stakeholder Group on Ageing would like to stress that leaving no one behind means including everyone, from cradle to grave. The HLPF has the historic role to ensure that this happens.
Thank you.
