EU Statement – UN General Assembly 3rd Committee: Interactive Dialogue with UNESCO

Thank you Chair!

I have the honor to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States.

Mr. Minchenberg, we would like to thank UNESCO for its report on the progress of global literacy.

The EU is convinced that improving worldwide literacy is key in order to achieve sustainable development. In particular, we reiterate our full commitment to the implementation of SDG 4, by remaining the leading investor in education across the globe. Collectively, the European Union and its Member States provide more than half of all Official Development Aid dedicated to education. In this regard, we fully appreciate the important role of UNESCO as one of our strategic partners, and as a leading force in education cooperation efforts.

While some progress in literacy has been made over the last few years, it remains slow and uneven. Improving access to education for vulnerable individuals should remain a core concern, and the EU welcomes your report's recommendation to place particular emphasis on the literacy needs of disadvantaged populations. Through our Global Gateway investment strategy, we dedicate resources to high-quality projects aimed at delivering inclusive quality education for all, with a particular focus on women and girls. As your report rightly points out, promoting gender equality in and through literacy is central to achieving SDG 4.

Mr. Minchenberg,

What are the first steps States can take to ensure that vulnerable populations are not left behind in the framework of literacy education?

How can we make sure that the specific needs of women and girls are fully addressed?

Thank you.