The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN's lead agency for international development. Operating in over 170 countries and territories, UNDP works to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, and build sustainable development by supporting countries in strengthening policies, institutions, and capacities. It plays a central role in helping nations achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing technical assistance, policy advice, and innovative solutions for economic growth, democratic governance, environmental sustainability, and human development. Through partnerships with governments, civil society, and the private sector, the UNDP strives to create inclusive and resilient communities that are better equipped to address contemporary global challenges.
The UNDP Strategic Plan 2022–2025 charts a comprehensive roadmap for helping countries achieve the Sustainable Development Goals in a world facing unprecedented challenges such as a planetary emergency and the COVID-19 pandemic. The plan outlines three main directions for change: driving structural transformation through green, inclusive, and digital transitions; ensuring that no one is left behind by adopting a rights-based approach focused on empowerment, equity, and enhanced social protection; and building resilience by strengthening systems’ capacities to prevent, mitigate, and recover from crises and shocks. These strategic directions are implemented through six signature solutions targeting poverty and inequality, governance, resilience, environment, energy, and gender equality, all supported by key enablers in strategic innovation, digitalization, and development financing. Through integrated and adaptable programming, modernized operational systems, and strengthened partnerships across the United Nations system, governments, the private sector, and civil society, UNDP aims to empower nations to reimagine development and build a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient future for all.
The UN Charter forms the foundational bedrock upon which the strategic plans of United Nations agencies are built. It enshrines core principles such as human dignity, equality, the rule of law, and multilateral cooperation, which inspire and guide global efforts in sustainable development, peace, and human rights. By committing all Member States to uphold these principles, the Charter creates an enabling environment for the coordinated pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals and other transformative initiatives outlined in strategic plans. It legitimizes collective action and ensures transparent, accountable processes among nations, thereby providing the legal and ethical framework needed to implement ambitious, cross-sectoral development strategies effectively
Information sourced from UNDP