Joint Statement delivered by H.E. Mr. Nikulas Hannigan,
Deputy Permanent Representative of Iceland to the United Nations
UNICEF Second Regular Session 2025: The Adoption of the Strategic Plan from Observer States
9 September, 2025

Thank you, Mr. President. I make this statement on behalf of Belgium, Canada, Finland, Ireland, Mexico, New Zealand and my own country Iceland.

As observer states, we wish to place on record our strong support for the endorsement of the UNICEF Strategic Plan. We regret that consensus could not be reached on the decision to adopt the plan, despite the long-standing practice of the Executive Board and the extensive efforts made throughout the consultation process.

We recognise the broad and inclusive consultations undertaken by UNICEF in preparing the Strategic Plan, and we believe its endorsement is essential to enable UNICEF to continue delivering on its vital mandate for children everywhere. We also acknowledge the Executive Board’s key role in safeguarding UNICEF’s capacity to promote and protect the rights of children and to contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

We therefore welcome the endorsement of the Strategic Plan, which provides a clear framework for UNICEF’s work over the next four years. Now more than ever, when children’s rights globally are under threat, it is essential to strengthen the mandate of UNICEF to advance the wellbeing of children worldwide.

As observers, we remain committed partners in this shared endeavour and believe the new strategic plan provides a firm basis to take this work forward.

We look forward to working collaboratively with UNICEF to deliver its goals and are committed to supporting UNICEF’s global leadership in upholding the rights of every child, everywhere.

Thank you.