‘Lots of Courage’ Key to Addressing Global Inequality in Pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals, Deputy Secretary-General Tells Annual Goalkeepers Event

Following are UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, at the third annual Goalkeepers event, in New York today:

It is fantastic to be with you this evening.  This is a room filled with activists and artists, world and community leaders; all of you — cherished supporters of the United Nations — committed to building a more just and equitable world.

I would like to offer my thoughts on what it takes to address global inequality and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.  The answer is quite simple:  courage; lots of courage.  Courage to stand up for human rights and to stand against those who oppose our path to gender equality.  Courage to push for financial inclusion and universal access to basic services.  Courage to recognize that, despite its many benefits, our current model of development is simply not delivering for everyone, and so, we need a fair globalization.  Courage to engage the sceptics and challenge the political interests that are hindering inclusive and sustainable development.  Courage to act.

Earlier today, the Secretary-General issued a global call for a decade of action to deliver the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.  This call is for each and every one of us to walk the talk.  As Goalkeepers, your courage and action can make a critical difference.  We must never give up and we must never give in.  We must never leave anyone behind.  The United Nations will remain your close ally in this work.

And with that in mind, it is now my pleasure to present the Global Goals Changemaker Award.  Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome to the stage Payal Jangid.  Thank you.