Ministry Statements & Speeches:
We commend the Executive Director and UNICEF staff for their continued dedication in delivering for children in an increasingly complex global environment.
As we mark its 80th anniversary, we are reminded of the founding values of the United Nations and UNICEF’s vital role in realising its vision. New Zealand believes that UNICEF’s efforts alongside the UN80 initiative can help ensure the whole system is fit for purpose, one that remains adaptive, trusted, and equipped to deliver development results that are locally led and globally relevant. And we, the Member States, have a responsibility to ensure that the UN80 process continues to serve those most in need.
As so many of us have stressed already, we are meeting at a time of unprecedented uncertainty for the UN system. New Zealand remains committed to protecting the norms and values of the UN, and we support action that will enable the UN system to deliver on its core mandates in this fiscally constrained environment. In that regard, we call for a renewed global commitment to core, predictable, and flexible funding.
As a Pacific country, New Zealand is deeply committed to ensuring that the voices and priorities of Pacific Island Countries are heard and reflected in global processes. We will continue to work alongside our Pacific partners to ensure that issues of particular importance to our region are considered in major decisions and negotiations across the UN system, including those shaping the future of development cooperation and humanitarian action. Children in our region face disproportionate risks from climate change, geographic isolation, and systemic vulnerabilities. We strongly support UNICEF’s deepening engagement with Pacific countries and its commitment to and focus on gender equality, disability inclusion, and data-driven decision-making.
New Zealand stands ready to work with UNICEF, Member States, and the wider UN family to realise the full promise of sustainable development—and to ensure that the future of multilateralism is inclusive, Pacific-informed, and fit for purpose.