Intervention by Micronesia’s Permanent Representative Jeem Lippwe at the Joint briefing by the President of the General Assembly and the President of the Economic and Social Commission on the role of the GA and ECOSOC in fragmented times

January 30, 2026

Distinguished Presidents of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), and the Economic and Social Commission (ECOSOC)

Thank you for convening today’s join briefing.

Peace and development are inseparable pillars of the United Nations, and the General Assembly and ECOSOC have a unique responsibility to uphold both. To consolidate their leadership, these bodies must strengthen coherence between peacebuilding, climate resilience, and sustainable development. For many vulnerable Small Island Developing States (SIDS), like the islands of Micronesia, the threats to peace are driven by environmental fragility, economic insecurity, and external shocks. A more integrated approach linking prevention, financing, and long‑term development support will allow the UN to address root causes rather than symptoms.

As we advance the UN80 Initiative, primary bodies of the United Nations like the General Assembly and ECOSOC can help make the United Nations more efficient and effective by championing reforms that streamline mandates, reduce duplication, and improve accountability for results. They can ensure that reporting cycles are rationalized, that field operations are better aligned with national priorities, and that the voices of vulnerable small island developing states remain central in decision‑making. Above all, they can guide the UN toward a system that is more responsive, more coherent, and better equipped to deliver peace, development, and dignity for all.

I thank you.