Vatican affirms that the 2030 Agenda is an important sign of hope

The Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the UN, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, assured that the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development represents “an important sign of hope”, as Pope Francis already stated in 2015.

Bishop Caccia made these statements during the high-level political forum on sustainable development, held from July 8 to 18 at the United Nations headquarters, New York (United States).

In his speech, the prelate made reference to the words of Pope Francis in the UN General Assembly in 2015 where, in addition to defining this Agenda as a sign of hope, he pointed out that education “is the basis for the realization of Agenda 2030 and to recover the environment.”

However, the Pontiff added on that occasion that “solemn commitments are not enough, although they are a necessary step towards solutions.” In this sense he stated that “we must avoid any temptation to fall into a declarationist nominalism that calms our consciences.”

About the “summit of the future”

Bishop Caccia also set his sights on the “summit of the future” that will be held next September under the title “multilateral solutions for a better future,” and stressed that this event “provides the opportunity to reflect on the progress made towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and to recalibrate efforts in light of new challenges.”

In addition, he defended that it is “imperative to intensify efforts and focus on how to achieve comprehensive human development for all.”

“The future summit must serve as a crucial moment to reaffirm the fundamental principles that underpin the collective efforts of the international community: the promotion of human dignity, the pursuit of the common good and the stewardship of our planet. These must guide our actions and policies with a view to achieving a more sustainable, just and peaceful society,” he highlighted.

What is the function of the Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the UN?

The figure of the Permanent Observer, which the Vatican has had since 1964, means that the Holy See is not a full member of the UN, but it is part of it as an observer State. In that sense, he participates in their debates by contributing ideas, but does not have the right to vote.

Therefore, the Catholic Church has taken part in the discussions and colloquiums that preceded the 2030 Agenda, but has not officially approved them. Bishop Gabriele Caccia has assumed this position since 2019.