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Statement by the delegation of Ukraine

Second Committee of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly

Item 19. Follow-up to the implementation of the New Urban Agenda and strengthening of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme

(16 October 2024)

Mr. Chairman,

At the outset, allow me to express Ukraine's strong commitment to the principles of sustainable development, particularly SDG 11—making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. We remain dedicated to advancing this goal both nationally and globally.

In this regard, Ukraine values its cooperation with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme. Our partnership has been important in supporting the development of Ukrainian cities, even as they face the extraordinary circumstances of Russia's full-scale invasion. We are committed to expanding this cooperation.

Across Ukraine, cities are transforming in ways that enhance their resilience and sustainability. Even amid war, new policies, locally and nationally, are being implemented to provide affordable housing, promote eco-friendly public transport, expand the use of renewable energy, and establish effective waste management systems. These initiatives represent more than just efforts to exist. The city of Lviv, for instance, in close collaboration with UN bodies, has developed its first Voluntary Local Review as a city at war, marking significant progress towards the SDGs. This effort shows that Ukraine continues to prioritize sustainability even as it defends itself from aggression.

The biggest challenge obstructing our cities’ development is Russia’s ongoing war of aggression. Russian forces continue to deliberately target civilian infrastructure in cities across Ukraine. Schools, hospitals, residential areas, and сritical infrastructure objects have all suffered from these attacks. 

As Ukraine approaches another winter, the challenges are severe. Russia’s armed forces are deliberately targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure aiming to achieve a complete blackout of Ukraine and destroy the entire energy system to influence Ukraine's economy and create a catastrophic situation by this winter. This is not only a war on our sovereignty but a war on our people’s right to safety, shelter, and a future.

The harsh lessons of war have, unfortunately, provided Ukraine with unique and difficult experience in enhancing urban resilience. We are grateful to our partners and the UN system for their assistance provided to Ukraine. With the support of the international community, Ukrainian cities can emerge stronger, more resilient, and more sustainable than ever before.

Finally, let me stress one thing. There is nothing, except a just and lasting peace, that can truly bring sustainable development back to Ukraine’s cities. We call upon the international community to support our efforts to achieve this peace, which is essential not only for Ukraine but also for the sustainable development of all.

Thank you.