On May 2, 2023, QUNO New York Representative, Kavita Desai, delivered a statement before the UN’s Economic and Social Council on behalf of Friends World Committee on Consultation (FWCC). The special meeting titled ‘Unleashing the transformative power of SDG 16: Improving governance and reducing corruption’ considered the importance and implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) on peace, justice, and building inclusive institutions in a post-pandemic era.

In her statement, Kavita reminded participants that civil society must be part of this effort: ‘enhancing transparency and accountability and combating corruption efforts must acknowledge the role of civil society, recognize them as partners, and resource their efforts, and work towards expanding and protecting civic space’. This is all the more critical, she noted, in the face of shrinking civic space globally.

Read the full statement here.

Watch the intervention here, starting at 02:46.