One UN Report 2023- United Nations in the State of Kuwait

FOREWORD BY THE UNITED NATIONS RESIDENT COORDINATOR

Ms. Ghada Eltaher

On behalf of the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in the State of Kuwait, I am honored to present the 2023 Annual Results Report. This comprehensive document not only highlights the significant development achievements made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Government of Kuwait and the UN Agencies in Kuwait but also offers valuable insights into the evolving development landscape. Moreover, it illustrates Kuwait ‘s impressive progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring the country ‘s prominent role on the global stage as a leader in international humanitarian and development cooperation.
Kuwait continues to make remarkable strides in its pursuit of Agenda 2030. As a high-income country with a per capita income exceeding USD 44,000, Kuwait ‘s progress against many SDG targets remains consistently positive, even amidst the global uncertainties driven by recent geopolitical developments and disruptions in international trade. These global challenges have exerted upward pressure on prices and have dampened the level of investments crucial to revitalizing the global economy. Despite these obstacles, Kuwait has maintained its steady trajectory toward achieving sustainable development.

The New Kuwait Vision 2035 serves as a strategic blueprint for the country ‘s development aspirations. Central to this vision is the creation of a diversified economy where the private sector plays an increasingly dominant role, supporting Kuwait ‘s transition to a greener economy driven by knowledge-based industries, green manufacturing, and low-carbon services. Kuwait has the potential to set an example for other oil and gas-producing nations, demonstrating that a green transformation can benefit the planet, people, and the economy alike.

In addition to supporting Kuwait ‘s inclusive and just transition to a green economy, the UN in Kuwait is well-positioned to assist the country in expanding its already commendable role in international development. The State of Kuwait has generously funded a range of regional humanitarian and recovery programs, as well as numerous global development initiatives. Given the extensive programs and expertise that the UN has deployed worldwide, there is significant potential for expanding trilateral cooperation between Kuwait, the UN, and partner countries. The UN system can provide valuable insights and resources to help Kuwait identify and capitalize on new opportunities for broadening its development partnerships.

Since assuming the role of UN Resident Coordinator in Kuwait in 2023, I have had the privilege of witnessing the vibrancy and dynamism of Kuwaiti society firsthand. My interactions with policymakers, private sector leaders, and civil society representatives have revealed the wealth of innovative ideas that Kuwaitis bring to addressing complex challenges. As Kuwait’s trusted partner, the UN remains fully committed to working closely with our Kuwaiti counterparts, harnessing the ingenuity and creativity of the Kuwaiti people to shape a better, more sustainable future for all.