Madam Deputy Secretary-General,
We thank you for convening this timely discussion.
Seven years after its repositioning, the Resident Coordinator system has demonstrated its value as a central pillar of a more coherent and effective United Nations development system at country level.
From our perspective, the demands on the system have become more complex and multidimensional. Challenges related to climate transition, energy security and digital transformation require Resident Coordinators to act with increased strategic focus, flexibility, and convening power.
We have seen clear progress. The system has strengthened coordination across UN Country Teams, improved alignment with national priorities, and supported more integrated approaches to sustainable development. In Albania, the Resident Coordinator has played an important role in advancing partnerships and ensuring that the UN delivers as one.
At the same time, further improvements are needed. A more flexible and differentiated approach is essential, in the case of Albania as we progress towards the membership to the European Union, development needs are evolving and require more tailored, specialized support.
Looking ahead, let me underline 3 elements:
- the need to reinforce key capacities within the Resident Coordinator system. In particular, expertise in sustainable financing, data and digitalization, partnerships, including with international financial institutions and the private sector, and crisis preparedness should be further strengthened.
- the importance of the Resident Coordinator’s leadership in driving system-wide coherence, results, and accountability. This requires clear authority, adequate resources, and strong support from all UN entities.
- the Resident Coordinator’s role in facilitating access to the expertise of non-resident entities becomes even more critical. Ensuring that countries can fully benefit from the entire UN system, regardless of physical presence, should remain a priority.
Albania supports a recalibration that moves beyond a one-size-fits-all approach and promotes a more flexible, efficient, and demand-driven system.
We look forward to continued engagement and to the presentation of the outcomes to ECOSOC and the General Assembly.
Thank you
