Explanation of Position of the Holy See on the Outcome Document of the 16th Ministerial Conference of the United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD)

Mr. President,

The Holy See would like to congratulate you, Mr. President, as well as the entire membership of the United Nations Trade and Development for the successful conclusion and consensual adoption of the outcome document.

Mr. President,

The Holy See reaffirms its support for UNCTAD’s mandate and its work around its three pillars to foster a global economy that truly serves the integral development of every person and of the whole person.

The outcome document just adopted recognizes the centrality of the human person in development discourses, including those in the most vulnerable situations, such as the poor and migrants, as well as countries in special situations. Moreover, my Delegation appreciates the recognition that eradicating poverty and hunger remains the foremost global priority. On financing for development, the Holy See re-emphasizes that debt sustainability and development finance remain moral imperatives.

Mr. President,

The Holy See reiterates its position regarding the term “gender”. The Holy See underlines that any reference to “gender” and related terms contained in any document that has been or that will be adopted by this Ministerial Conference or used within or adopted by the intergovernmental machinery of UNCTAD is to be understood as grounded in the biological sexual identity that is male or female.

In conclusion, the Holy See welcomes this outcome document as a testament to the value of effective multilateralism. As we move forward, it is essential that this human-centred vision remains at the heart of our collective efforts.

I ask that this statement to be included in the official record of this meeting.

Thank you, Mr. President.