bulletins: pact for the future

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chapter 1: sustainable development and financing for development

• This bulletin will focus on “Chapter 1: Sustainable development and financing for development” and compare the Zero Draft, compilation text, and Rev.1, identifying the key terminology, language, and paragraphs that were removed, modified, maintained, or added. All direct quotes from the texts have been placed in quotation marks and italicized.

• Closed member state consultations on the Chapeau and Chapter 1: Sustainable Development and Financing for Development was held on the 1st of December 2023 in the ECOSOC Chamber. The co-facilitators, Germany and Namibia, proposed to use revision 3 of the draft decision as the starting point for negotiations, which was welcomed by many with the exception of G77 and China. The need for reform of the International Financial Architecture and debt restructuring featured prominently in these consultations. Get yourself updated on the latest news on Chapter 1 negotiations with the following ICH bulletin.

• The right to education and lifelong learning is important to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development since education, knowledge, and learning are essential to an individual’s dignity, progress, and development. Education has been the great equalizer, a driving force in nation-building, and the engine of social, cultural, economic, and technical growth for ages. Today, however, education as we know it is no longer fit for purpose, afflicted by twin crises of equity and relevance. Building on the Transforming Education Summit and the International Commission on the Futures of Education report, this policy brief examines the current education crisis in greater depth and proposes a vision and set of guiding actions for countries and the international community to transform education.

• The Secretary-General’s policy brief on “Reforms to the International Financial Architecture” states that “The international financial architecture, crafted in 1945 after the Second World War, is undergoing a stress test of historic proportions – and it is failing the test … This failure poses a growing and systemic threat to the multilateral system itself, driving deepening divergence, geoeconomic fragmentation and geopolitical fractures across the world … The present policy brief sets out action-oriented recommendations for reforming the international financial and tax architecture …”. Update yourself on the highlights and key action items proposed by the Secretary-General in the ICH bulletin below.

• This policy brief outlines the shortcomings of our reliance on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as a primary measure of economic development. This is, broadly, due to its failure to account for certain dimensions of economic activity, environmental destruction and human well-being. The brief recognises, moreover, the SDGs, 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Human Development Index (among others) as initiatives to go “Beyond GDP”. 

• The key recommendations of this brief call for: a renewed political commitment by Member States to accurately “value what counts”, the construction of a robust technical and scientific process to produce key indicators that go “Beyond GDP”, and a major capacity-building and resourcing initiative to enable Member States to effectively utilise the new framework. Overall, these recommendations promote the creation of a universal and comprehensive measurement of sustainable development to complement, rather than replace, GDP; to more strongly capture what matters to the people, the planet and the future. 

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chapter 2: international peace and security

• The co-facilitators of the Summit of the Future, Germany and Namibia, released the zero-draft of the Pact for the Future on 26 January 2024, which was meant to serve as a starting point for intergovernmental negotiations. The Rev. 1 of the Pact for the Future was released on 14 May 2024 following extensive deliberations as part of First and Second Readings in February and March. This ICH Bulletin compares the zero-draft and Rev. 1 for Chapter 2 on International Peace and Security.
• The Rev. 1 has added important elements like national prevention strategies, chemical and biological weapons, while dropping the Youth, Peace and Security Agenda and UN financing for peace operations carried out by regional and subregional organisations except the African Union. Language from the zero-draft has evolved considerably to reflect the priorities of member states and put forward an action-oriented document that has the best chance of achieving consensus among all member states. Get yourself updated on all the changes, deletions and additions in the following ICH Bulletin.

• Closed member state consultations on Chapter 2: International Peace and Security was held on 5th of December 2023. The key issues raised were respect for the UN Charter and international law, the prevention of conflicts, peaceful settlement of disputes, importance of the Women and Youth Peace and Security agendas, as well as, strengthening of the Peacebuilding Commission, reform of the Security Council, climate security, and emerging security risks. Catch the latest on the Chapter 2 negotiations in the following ICH bulletin.

• In the declaration commemorating the United Nations’ 75th anniversary, heads of state and government committed to promoting peace and averting wars. It will take significant changes on the part of Member States to uphold and strengthen the multilateral system as the only practical way to address a complex array of global threats and carry out the objectives of the UN Charter on a global scale to honor this commitment. Nevertheless, for many people around the world, peace is still a distant dream.

• The Emergency Platform, as proposed by the Secretary-General (SG) in his policy brief, will allow the SG to convene Member States (MS), the UN system, key country groupings, International Financial Institutions, regional bodies, civil society, the private sector, subject-specific industries or research bodies, and other experts, in the event of crises of sufficient scale and magnitude, regardless of the type or nature of the crisis involved. Informal consultations on the proposed Emergency Platform happened on 16 March 2023, where MS requested additional information and differing views on the activation criteria and relationship with the General Assembly, among others, were expressed. Stakeholder consultations were organized on the same day with presentations from the Executive Office of the SG. Catch all that happened related to the Emergency Platform in the ICH bulletin here.

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chapter 3: responsible use of science, technology, and innovation

• The Zero Draft of the Pact for the Future, released on January 26th, 2024, initiated formal intergovernmental negotiations ahead of the September 2024 SOTF. Responding to Member States’ mandate for a more concise and action-oriented document, Rev-1 was released on May 14th, 2024. This bulletin examines Chapter 3: Science, Technology, and Innovation and Digital Cooperation, comparing changes between the Zero Draft and Rev-1 based on compilation text for detailed insights.

• Following informal consultations in December 2023 and First and Second Readings through February and March 2024, the co-facilitators of the Summit of the Future (SOTF) released a 21-page compilation text for Chapter 3 on Science, Technology and Innovation and Digital Cooperation. This chapter deals with several important issues from harnessing science and technology through a human rights-based approach to tackle global challenges and achieve the SDGs. It emphasizes the peaceful use of nuclear technology, partnerships, and technology transfer, and balanced geographical representation in scientific advisory boards.
• Key issues include responsible business practices, adaptable intellectual property rights, managing technological risks, promoting digital inclusion, enhancing South-South cooperation, evidence-based policymaking, and strengthening global support for STEM education and human rights in digital cooperation. Additionally, member states urge addressing specific challenges like gender-based violence and healthcare accessibility. Stay informed on the latest developments and detailed insights from compilation text for Chapter 3 in the following comprehensive ICH bulletin.

• Closed member state consultations on Chapter 3: Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) and Digital Cooperation was held in the morning of 11th of December 2023 in Conference Room 2 in the UN General Assembly. Member states stressed on closely linking STI to the 2030 Agenda and the need to expand digital connectivity, so as to leave no one offline. The areas where member states lacked consensus were technology transfer and intellectual property rights, among others. Get more on the latest negotiations on Chapter 3 in the following ICH bulletin.

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chapter 4: youth and future generations

• The zero draft of the Pact for the Future was released on January 26, 2024. Rev. 1 of the Pact of the Future was released on May 14, 2024, after consultations with member states. This bulletin will focus on Chapter 4, comparing the zero draft and Rev. 1. identifying the key terms or statements that were removed, modified, maintained, or added. 

• During the first week of April 2024, Member States engaged in the second reading of the zero draft of the Pact for the Future at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The discussions highlighted the importance of youth and future generations in crafting a sustainable future. Member States emphasized investing in inclusive education, eliminating prejudice, and improving digital literacy to empower young people. They also stressed the need for cultural engagement and active involvement in decision-making processes to foster a more inclusive society. Member States also highlighted the importance of empowering Indigenous women and youth and ensuring their full participation in decision-making processes. Concerns were raised regarding Indigenous women, children, and youth; these concerns included access to health services, education, and preserving traditional knowledge. Member States called for the removal of barriers preventing young people from running for public leadership positions and urged nations to guarantee their representation in political systems. They also emphasized the need for flexible funding for youth organizations and the establishment of national youth consultative bodies to engage in policy making. Overall, the discussions emphasized the importance of prioritizing youth development and intergenerational collaboration to address global challenges and ensure a sustainable future.

• Between February 6 and February 9, 2024, Member States gathered at the United Nations Headquarters in New York for the first reading of the zero draft of the Pact for the Future. During the discussions, it was emphasized that youth play a critical role in shaping a sustainable future by championing gender equality and fostering a more inclusive global workplace. The well-being of future generations is intricately linked to their education and empowerment, with Member States recognizing the significance of investing in inclusive education for their long-term development. Furthermore, Member States highlighted the importance of addressing issues such as discrimination, promoting intercultural dialogue, and enhancing digital literacy to support the growth and well-being of young people. Cultural engagement and active participation in decision-making processes were also underscored as essential components for building a more inclusive society. In addition, some Member States extended an invitation to the Secretary-General to take the lead in developing a global standard for inclusive youth engagement, recognizing the need for a coordinated and comprehensive approach to empower and involve young people in shaping a better future.

• Closed member state consultations on Chapter 4: Youth and future generations was held on 11th of December 2023. The consultations had a focus on the youth dimension, leaving discussions on future generations for the process of elaborating the Declaration on Future Generations. The key issues raised were the need to see youth as “agents of change in decision-making processes, strong support for the mandate of the UN Youth Office, and the importance of poverty eradication, quality education, decent work and employment, and skills training. Catch the latest on the Chapter 4 negotiations in the following ICH bulletin.

• The knowledge and resources needed to fulfill the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development are available in the modern world. But without the support and participation of a wide range of players, revolutionary changes will simply not be achievable at the scale necessary. Particularly true for the 1.2 billion young people who are living today. Young people hold the key to developing novel ideas that can bring about the breakthroughs our planet so desperately needs. They also stand to suffer the most if societies grow more unstable and unequal and if the triple planetary catastrophe worsens unchecked, as they will be the planet’s future keepers.

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chapter 5: transforming global governance

• The Permanent Representatives of Austria and Kuwait to the United Nations in New York have been the Co-Chairs of the Intergovernmental Negotiations on the question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council and other related matters to the Security Council (IGN) during the 78th session of the General Assembly.
• The input of the IGN has been submitted to the Co-Facilitators of the Summit of the Future (Germany and Namibia) for inclusion in ‘Chapter V: Transforming global governance’ of the Pact for the Future.
• Based on the negotiations, the Co-Facilitators of the IGN process have circulated four revised versions of the language on Security Council Reform to be included in the Pact for the Future. The final input that has been sent to the Co-Facilitators of the Summit of the Future is based on an understanding that it enjoys the widest possible political acceptance among IGN delegations. The current text is based on extensive consultations and in the Co-facilitators’ view, the best compromise achievable, striking a fair balance between the various positions expressed in the framework of the IGN.
• This Bulletin endeavours to provide an overview and comparison of how the initial draft of the IGN input (1 May, 2024) has evolved over time to form the latest version (as of 3 July, 2024). The key terminology, language, and paragraphs that were removed, modified, maintained, or added will be identified. 
• Find a detailed analysis of the language that has been amended, added and/or removed in the following ICH Bulletin.

• This bulletin will focus on “Chapter 5: Transforming global governance” comparing the Zero Draft, compilation text, and Rev.1.
• The intergovernmental negotiations of Chapter 5 covered a broad range of topics related to transforming global governance. This includes (but is not limited to) extensive discussions on the selection and appointment process of the Secretary-General, strengthening the Economic and Social Council, General Assembly, Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights, and the Peacebuilding Commission, and reform of the international financial architecture. 
• Find a detailed analysis of the language that has been amended, added and/or removed in the following ICH Bulletin.

• Following informal consultations in December 2023 and First and Second Readings through February and March 2024, the co-facilitators of the Summit of the Future (SOTF) released a 46-page compilation text for Chapter 5 on Transforming Global Governance. This chapter deals with a range of issues from the reform of the Security Council to increasing the regular resources for the Office of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the reform of the International Financial Institutions (IFIs) and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space.
• Member States have expressed their expectations for transformation of the global governance institutions in this Chapter. The reform of IFIs and global economic governance mechanisms took a large portion of the compilation text, where the G-77 proposed language for a greater and proportionate representation in decision-making bodies and made several proposals for financing of the SDGs, many of which were not fully supported by Western countries. Get yourself updated on the headlines and details of the negotiations on Chapter 5 in the following ICH bulletin.

• Closed member state consultations on Chapter 5: Transforming Global Governance was held on 6th of December 2023 in the Trusteeship Council. The key issues raised were reform of the Security Council, strengthening the role of the Peacebuilding Commission and the International Financial Architecture, including reform of Multilateral Development Banks and tax cooperation at the global level. Catch the latest on Chapter 5 negotiations in the following ICH bulletin.

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• On 14 May 2024, the Co-facilitators of the Intergovernmental Preparatory Process of Summit of the Future, Permanent Representative of Germany, H.E. Ms. Antje Leedertse, and PR of Namibia, H.E. Mr. Neville Gertze, released the revised draft (Rev.1) of the Pact for the Future together with the roadmap of upcoming negotiations. This was just days after attending the 2024 UN Civil Society Conference in Nairobi on the Summit of the Future. Rev 1 was presented to Member States and other Stakeholders on 15 May 2024, followed by a section-by-section reading. On 30 May 2024, the Co-facilitators held informal stakeholder consultations on the Rev. 1 of the Pact for the Future with Major Groups and other Stakeholders and Civil Society Representatives. This bulletin gives highlights of the discussions held and issues raised on the revised draft of the Pact. The Co-Chairs of the 2024 UN Civil Society Conference, Ms. Carole Ageng’o  and Ms. Nudhara Yusuf released the Conference outcome package consisting of a Co-Chairs Summary capturing the recommendations across workshops, plenaries, and the discussions in interactive dialogues, as well as the innovative ImPact Coalitions, created as networks that support Member States to champion specific reforms and proposals toward the Summit of the Future.

• Following informal consultations in December 2023 and First and Second Readings through February and March 2024, the co-facilitators of the Summit of the Future (SOTF) released a 78-page compilation text for Chapter 2 on International Peace and Security. This chapter deals with a range of issues from peacekeeping, peacebuilding fund and nuclear disarmament to outer space, Lethal Autonomous Weapons (LAWs), and coordination with Regional Organizations.
• Member States have attempted to tackle some of the contemporary issues related to international peace and security, such as exploring a legally binding instrument for LAWs; reviving disarmament processes such as the Conference on Disarmament; setting roadmaps and targets for illicit trade of small arms, among others. Get yourself updated on the headlines and details of the compilation text for Chapter 2 in the following ICH bulletin.

• The co-facilitators introduced the 20-page Zero Draft of the Pact for the Future at a meeting on January 29, 2024 in the Trusteeship Council. This was followed by initial comments from Member States. To know more about this consultation, refer to the ICH bulletin at the link.

• The Co-facilitators held a hybrid meeting with Major Group and other Stakeholders (MGoS) and Civil Society representatives to allow them to express their expectations on the Summit of the Future and contribute to the zero draft of the Pact for the Future. They called for an inclusive and transparent engagement, and a Pact that sets a high vision for multilateralism, equity and solidarity especially in the wake of global challenges and emerging issues.