High-level political forum on sustainable development
convened under the auspices of the Economic and Social
Council
Statement by H.E. Jeem Lippwe, Permanent Representative

New York, 23 July 2025

Mr. President,

Micronesia is pleased to participate in this debate, at this moment of reflection and renewal in our journey toward the 2030 Agenda.

We have strived over the last decade to translate global commitments into meaningful local impact. Our VNR presented last week reflects resilience, ambition, and the lessons learned through adversity.

Climate change is a cross-cutting threat and not simply an environmental issue – it is an existential challenge that reverberates across all dimensions of development. Addressing climate resilience is not optional – it must be integrated into every strategy to ensure sustainable development is truly sustainable. Financing climate resilience remains insufficient and slow-moving.

On SDG 3: We have expanded primary health care services across our islands, improved immunization coverage, and introduced mobile clinics to serve remote communities. Maternal and child health indicators have shown gradual improvement.

Despite our progress, shortages in medical personnel, equipment, and specialized care continue to limit equitable access.

On SDG 5: Micronesia has advanced policy reforms supporting women’s leadership and enacted measures to prevent gender-based violence. Community-led initiatives are expanding awareness and participation.

Resources for gender-specific programming are however, inadequate.

On SDG 8: While unemployment remains a concern, especially among youth, targeted training and small business support programs have begun to catalyze inclusive growth, with the blue economy a promising pathway for sustainable livelihoods. 

 On SDG 14:  Micronesia is a Big Ocean State and our ocean defines who we are.  We have expanded marine protected areas, and adopted sustainable fisheries regulations. We call for urgent global action to preserve marine biodiversity. 

On SDG 17 – Bilateral and multilateral cooperation has supported vital development in, among others, health, energy, and digital infrastructure. Tailored long-term partnerships built on mutual respect and shared priorities have helped amplify local solutions.   Strengthening these partnerships remains key to achieving the SDGs in island contexts.

In these final years leading to 2030, Micronesia calls for urgent support through tailored financing, technology transfer, and inclusive partnerships. The progress made must be scaled up, and the lessons learned must be our guiding star. Our commitment to sustainable development is steadfast.

Thank you.

High-level political forum on sustainable development convened under the auspices of the Economic and Social CouncilDownload