Guy Ryder, UN Under‑Secretary‑General for Policy, said the reform process has entered a new, delivery‑focused phase following steady progress over the past year. “We are now moving into a phase that is focused on implementation, building on the momentum created by recent achievements,” he told Member States.
Launched in 2025, the UN80 Initiative seeks to reshape how the UN operates so that every mandate, dollar and decision delivers greater impact. The initiative consists of 86 actions grouped into thematic work packages spanning peace and security, development, human rights and humanitarian assistance.
Ryder highlighted recent milestones, including the General Assembly’s adoption of a landmark resolution last week to strengthen how UN mandates are created, reviewed and implemented. He said more than 80% of early milestones under the Action Plan have already been completed. A consolidated progress report due next month will outline timelines and next steps across all work areas.
One of the most closely watched elements of the briefing was the presentation of preliminary findings on a possible merger between UN Women and UNFPA.
Deputy Secretary‑General Amina Mohammed said the discussion reflects a changing global context. “Both UNFPA and UN Women have delivered strong results for decades, but the challenges facing women, girls and youth are becoming more complex. The status quo is not an option,” she said.
The assessment suggests that combining UN Women’s expertise on gender equality with UNFPA’s mandate on sexual and reproductive health and rights could strengthen coherence and delivery across more than 150 countries and territories.
UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous said the debate is about future impact, not performance. “The question is whether a different configuration could better equip the UN to translate commitments into consistent and scalable results,” she said.
UNFPA Executive Director Diene Keita acknowledged both the opportunities and risks involved. “A merger of this scale is complex. Phased implementation and clear safeguards would be essential to avoid disruptions,” she said.
Officials stressed that any decision on a merger will rest with Member States.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
