Statement of Jamaica at the UNGA72

SDGs: “While it is essential to attend to the immediate humanitarian needs and reconstruction efforts, we must also urgently address our long term sustainable developmental goals. I urge that in our collective efforts to implement the SDGs we take account of the tremendous challenges faced by vulnerable countries completely knocked off course by external shocks.” 

SDGs: “We call, therefore, on the UN system to establish a mechanism to provide the requisite support and compensation to vulnerable countries affected by natural disasters, where their implementation of Agenda 2030 and progress towards achieving the SDGs have been derailed as a result of such external shocks.”

Peacekeeping/Conflict Prevention: “We, therefore, fully support the focus placed by the Secretary-General on sustaining peace across the continuum: from prevention, conflict resolution and peacekeeping, to peace-building and long-term development.”

SDGs: “The alignment between the SDGs and our National Development Plan, 'Vision 2030', creates a framework within which we can identify and achieve our priorities, not least of which is to ensure the dignity of the individual.”

SDGs: “Through the Group of Friends on Financing the SDGs, which our countries co-chair, we have been promoting the establishment of partnerships with the private sector, philanthropic organisations and academic institutions. We are exploring innovative financial mechanisms that can spur the investments needed to accelerate implementation of the SDGs.”

Women and empowerment: “Jamaica is committed to the empowerment of women and girls, as well as young people. We have revitalized our National Youth Parliament and have created the National Youth Advisory Council to ensure that young people have a voice at policy-making levels in our country.”

Gender-based violence: “We are strengthening our legislative and policy frameworks to address violence against women and girls and to foster economic opportunities.”

Palestine: “Turning to the Middle East, we continue to believe that the best solution to the Israeli-Palestinian crisis rests in a negotiated political settlement based on a just, lasting and comprehensive agreement that guarantees the security of Israel and provides for a Palestinian State within internationally recognised borders.”