Statement by Deputy Permanent Representative Dmitry Chumakov at the UNGA meeting on the confirmation of the appointment of the UNDP Administrator
Point of order:
Madam President,
We would like to raise a point of order.
This year the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) marks its 60th anniversary. Over these years it has become the cornerstone of the UN development system, a reliable partner for programme countries, and a leading driver of the sustainable development agenda. However, throughout this entire period, despite fundamental changes in the world order and in the development architecture, the post of UNDP Administrator has always been held by representatives of the Group of Western European and Other States. The continuation of this practice threatens trust in UNDP and its legitimacy.
At the same time, we note that the previous public statements of Mr. De Croo raise serious concerns regarding his ability, in his new position, to adhere to the principle of impartiality in accordance with Article 100 of the UN Charter. We firmly believe that the political views of the head of the Programme must not influence the organization’s neutral role or create a risk of politicizing its activities.
In this regard, the Russian Federation requests that a vote be taken on the confirmation of the appointment of Mr. De Croo as UNDP Administrator. We also request the floor to deliver a statement in explanation of vote.
Thank you.
Video of the statement on the point of order
Explanation of Vote:
Madam President,
The Russian Federation takes note of the appointment of Mr. De Croo as UNDP Administrator. Our delegation, recognizing the importance of the uninterrupted functioning of the agency for developing countries, decided to abstain in the vote. We expect that the new UNDP Administrator will strictly adhere to the principle of impartiality – as required by his new status as an international civil servant – and thereby realize the Programme’s unifying potential in the interests of the entire international community.
We trust that under its new leadership UNDP will continue to strengthen its capacity to support countries of the Global South in accordance with the UN Charter and the fundamental policy documents governing the UN’s operational activities for development. Russia, which over the past 10 years has implemented more than 80 joint projects with UNDP totaling 135 million US dollars, remains open to constructive cooperation with the Programme in support of developing countries.
Thank you for your attention.
