16 February 2016: Multilateralism has “reasserted itself” in relation to sustainable development, but failed in the area of peace and security, said UN General Assembly (UNGA) President Mogens Lykketoft, in addresses to the European Parliament and the European Council. Lykketoft reflected on issues of focus for the 70th session of the UNGA, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Paris Agreement on climate change, the selection of the next UN Secretary-General, and the refugee crisis.

During a trip to Europe, Lykketoft participated in the Post Davos Nordic Summit, addressed the European Council’s Political and Security Committee and the Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, and met with European leaders.

The 2030 Agenda and the Paris Agreement “prove once again the relevance and value of the UN,” Lykketoft said, but the ownership and energy around the agreements must be transformed into “real investment and tangible action,” including from the private sector. For instance, he said investment in sustainable energy and infrastructure should come from capital investors, companies and pension funds. He also called for: addressing exclusion; confronting gender stereotypes and power dynamics; prioritizing investment in accountable, effective and inclusive institutions; tackling corporate tax avoidance; and creating a market framework that makes green investment a better, safer investment for everyone.

Lykketoft also informed the two bodies that the UNGA will play a more prominent role in selecting and appointing the next UN Secretary-General, than in past years, and said the next UN chief must help the UN to renew itself and improve its capacity to maintain peace and security, protect human rights and ensure sustainable development. Lykketoft said he will convene informal dialogues between the candidates and UN Member States to improve the prospects of selecting the best possible candidate and increase transparency. He added that the three upcoming high-level thematic debates in the UNGA will allow Ministers to share their views on the improvements and changes they expect of the UN. [UNGA President Remarks, 16 February] [UNGA President Remarks, 17 February] [UNGA Webpage on UN Secretary-General Selection] [UNRIC Press Release] [IISD RS Story on Post Davos Nordic Summit]