Secretary-General Video Message for International Forum on Government Audit Highlights Independent Bodies’ Role to Ensure Efficient Funding of Sustainable Development

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message to the International Forum on Government Audit:  “How Supreme Audit Institutions May Contribute to Reach Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 2 — No Poverty and Zero Hunger”, in Rio de Janeiro, today:

Ladies and gentlemen, conflict, climate change and rising inequalities are unleashing havoc around the world.

The most vulnerable are being hit the hardest.  Millions were plunged into poverty by COVID‑19, setting back more than four years of hard-won progress.  Meanwhile, the number of people facing severe food insecurity has doubled.  Developing countries are facing a liquidity crisis.  And many Governments are forced to choose between supporting their people and servicing their debt.

In these challenging circumstances, Supreme Audit Institutions are vital.  As independent bodies, they can increase the efficiency and effectiveness of public policies; ensure transparency and accountability in Government spending; and in doing so, help restore trust between people and their leaders.  This trust is the bedrock of a resilient social contract.

The Sustainable Development Goals offer a robust framework to address the compounding crises facing our common humanity.  I am happy to see that in many countries, Audit Institutions are using the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to guide their work.

I was impressed, for example, to see how the Goals already permeate audits and action across the judiciary in Brazil — our host for this International Forum.

I encourage you to use this opportunity to examine all avenues for strengthening this Forum and assisting Governments to invest in their people.  Audit Institutions can help accelerate progress and achieve all 17 SDGs.  The clock is ticking.  We only have seven years left.  We must all play our part in eradicating poverty, ending hunger and leaving no one behind.

I thank you for your leadership and wish you a successful meeting.  Thank you.