ICC welcomes UN Pact for the Future as chance to forge new models of engagement with business

The International Chamber of Commerce has issued the following statement following the adoption of the United Nations Pact for the Future. ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said:

“We welcome the adoption today of the United Nations Pact for the Future. Global business is clear that enhanced international cooperation is imperative to tackle the critical challenges facing the world – from climate change to insecurity.

“We commend the leadership of the UN Secretary General and the President of the General Assembly for their leadership in delivering this important agreement in the face of complex political dynamics throughout the intergovernmental negotiations.

“We recognise that the final pact hasn’t delivered the level of ambition in some areas that many of us have been seeking from this agreement. But we believe, nevertheless, it provides an important foundation for renewed cooperation on cross-border challenges and, ultimately, a stronger UN system.

“Nowhere is that more important than the opportunity provided to enhance role of the UN crisis situations, learning the lessons – good and bad – from the international response to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic to the spillover effects of the conflict in Ukraine.

“Here, we believe the Pact must serve as an immediate platform for action to develop mechanisms capable of ensuring a rapid, cohesive and effective global response to emerging crises. This should provide an opportunity to forge new models of engagement with business – breaking through artificial silos that today often limit the real-world impact of crisis response efforts. We look forward to working with the UN Secretary General to this end.”