UN‘s Kallon calls for South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC) as global population hits 8 billion
By Staff Writer
UNITED Nations Resident and Humanitarian coordinator for Zimbabwe, Edward Kallon has challenged policy makers to take advantage of South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC) in order to tackle the challenges of a surging global population which has hit eight (8) billion.
He was addressing delegates at the 30th International Conference on Population and Development currently underway in the resort town of Victoria Falls.
His remarks coincides with the UNFPA’s State of the World Population report, which revealed that global population has reached a staggering eight billion amid projections that is projected to surpass 9,2 billion by 2050 , effectively posing significant challenges for sustainable development.
The discussions are being conducted under the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD), which was established in 1994 during the historic conference in Cairo.
Since its founding, it has played a transformative role in shaping global thinking on population and development due to its functions of emphasizing the importance of human rights, including reproductive rights, in sustainable development.
Kallon underscored that in order to accelerate the achievement of the ICPD goals, it is imperative to leverage mechanisms such as South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC).
SSTC is achieved through a broad framework of collaboration among countries of the South in the political, economic, social, cultural, environmental and technical domains. It involves two or more developing countries, it can take place on a bilateral, regional, intraregional or interregional basis.
“First, SSTC should be used as an enabler to shift from funding to financing. Sharing experiences, scaling up proven approaches, and exploring innovative financing modalities can complement Official Development Assistance (ODA) and mobilize resources effectively.
“Second, we must learn from and accelerate proven programmes through platforms like the South-South Galaxy, which serves as a repository of documents and a vehicle for programme improvement. Enhancing existing programmes, learning from others, and accelerating progress are vital steps,” said Kallon.
The UN chief said thirdly, SSTC activities should be pursued at multiple levels, from policy and strategic levels to project and community levels by leveraging institutional comparative advantages and engaging stakeholders at various levels can lead to inclusive and equitable development.
He also opined that the power of digital networks should be harnessed for knowledge sharing, codifying good practices, and fostering partnerships. Utilizing platforms that facilitate knowledge and information sharing on SSTC can maximize their potential.
The UN top official said cooperation should go beyond financial contributions and technical assistance. Innovative responses to challenges related to maternal health and gender equality should be accelerated through strategic partnerships and collaboration.
He said it is also essential to strengthen institutional capacities and allocate adequate resources to support South-South and triangular cooperation, as mentioned in the UN Secretary-General’s 2022 State of South-South Cooperation report.
In mobilizing resources through South-South and triangular cooperation, said Kallon, it is crucial to explore successful practices, lessons learned, and potential areas for collaboration underscoring that the ICPD session provides a platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and networking among stakeholders involved in SSTC.
“By mobilizing resources through SSTC, we can bridge financing gaps and contribute to the implementation of the SDGs. This requires exploring innovative financing mechanisms, leveraging partnerships, and focusing on domestic resource mobilization,” added Kallon.
