T&T Government And UN Put People And Planet At The Centre Of Development Cooperation

Climate change, prevention of violence, stronger safety and security, sustainable food production and the transition to renewable energy are among the sustainable development issues that will remain priorities for the next phase of cooperation between the Government of Trinidad and Tobago and the United Nations (UN).

In addition, support for youth development, continued focus on women’s rights, children’s welfare and prevention of non-communicable diseases were also raised as key areas for ongoing collaboration.

These priorities emerged during the 2025 Joint National Steering Committee (JNSC) Meeting convened by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago – through the Ministry of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development, and the United Nations in Trinidad and Tobago.

The meeting, which took place at the Hyatt Regency, brought together ten Ministers and several Permanent Secretaries to outline their strategic vision for Trinidad and Tobago’s sustainable development over the next five years.  Heads of UN Agencies also reviewed development outcomes achieved through UN – Government cooperation over the last year, identifying opportunities to further advance progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

According to Planning, Economic Affairs and Development Minister, Kennedy Swaratsingh, “We gather at a time when Trinidad and Tobago stands at a development crossroads—facing both unique challenges and remarkable opportunities. The work of this Committee is crucial as we chart the course for the future, ensuring that our strategies and policies are not only inclusive but also sustainable and forward-looking. Today, we have the opportunity to capitalise on our diverse expertise reflecting that together, more can be accomplished.”

UN Resident Coordinator in Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten, Joanna Kazana, noted that as the UN commemorates its 80^th anniversary, joint initiatives with the government reflect a deepening strategic partnership to deliver on the promise of peace and prosperity for every Trinbagonian.

“Our vision is a robust, dynamic, and results-oriented partnership, achieved through strong cross-sectoral collaboration. The UN brings to the table a global repository of expertise and knowledge and a neutral convening power. This Committee is where we think about long term results that you want to achieve and we can support.  Your national leadership and our global platform come together to accelerate SDG progress and unlock the full potential of this nation.”

The JNSC meets annually to review progress on the implementation of the UN’s development cooperation with the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago under the United Nations Multi-Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNMSDCF) 2022-2026, which Minister Swaratsingh signed on July 9.   High-level representatives from Government ministries and public sector entities comprise the JNSC, alongside the UN Resident Coordinator and Representatives of UN entities working in Trinidad and Tobago.

Delivering presentations during the meeting were the Ministers of Education; Trade, Investment and Tourism; Health; Agriculture, Land and Fisheries; Labour, Small and Micro Enterprises; Energy and Energy Industries; People, Social Development and Family Services and Justice.

The UN in Trinidad and Tobago comprises UNDP, UNICEF, UNFPA, UN Women, UNHCR, IOM, WFP, ECLAC, UNIC, ILO, PAHO/WHO, FAO, OHCHR, UNODC, UNEP, UNESCO, UNDRR, UNAIDS, ITU, UNLIREC, OCHA, UNCTAD and UNCDF.

In 2026, consultations with national stakeholders will commence to develop the next iteration of the UNMSDCF for the period 2027 to 2031.  

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