Role of Data Crucial in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals, Secretary-General Stresses in Address to Solutions Summit

Following is UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s message, delivered by Amina Mohammed, Special Adviser on the Post-2015 Development Planning, to the “Solutions Summit”, in New York today:

I am delighted to offer my best wishes to the scientists, engineers and others who have gathered for the Solutions Summit.  I thank the United Nations Foundation and the many partners that have made this event possible.

You come together at a celebratory moment following Friday’s adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.  In a world beset by so many challenges, problems and disputes, it is a sign of great hope that world leaders and the world’s people have together forged an inspiring new vision for the future well-being of all humankind.

The new Agenda is comprehensive, reflecting the complexity of today's world.  It is universal, applying to all countries.  It is integrated, taking into account the links among the economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development.  And with its connections to justice, institutions and inclusiveness, the agenda can help address and prevent the conflicts and crises that characterize so much of today’s global landscape.

Achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals in the span of 15 years will be no small feat.  We can transform the world — but it will require all our energies and ingenuity to make it happen.  That is where you, some of the world’s best innovators, can help.

Data will play a crucial role.  Data are the lifeblood of decision-making.  Without high-quality data providing the right information on the right things at the right time, our work would be almost impossible.  New technologies are leading to an exponential increase in the volume and types of data available, creating enormous potential.  At the same time, data needs improving.  Whole groups of people are not being counted.  Too much data is released late or not at all.  The United Nations needs you to mobilize the data revolution for all people so that we monitor progress and hold Governments accountable.

Thank you again for being part of the most inclusive consultation process in UN history.  Now we need you to stay engaged and help us hit the ground running to meet the test of implementation.  The 2030 Agenda has been officially adopted; now let us bring it to life everywhere, for everyone.