GNV News 2025–11–30

On 2025–11–23, the “International Industry Summit” was held in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, as the 21st General Conference of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). UNIDO is mandated to promote inclusive and sustainable industrial development. The summit brought together representatives of governments, the private sector, and civil society from around the world to discuss the role industry should play in tackling global challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, and building fair supply chains.

While addressing these challenges is urgent, the global economy is sluggish and high-income countries are reducing aid budgets for low-income countries. UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that it is necessary to introduce low-impact, resource-efficient technologies and upgrade infrastructure, calling on countries to pursue industrial development that does not place an excessive burden on society and the environment. UNIDO Director General Gerd Müller also sharply pointed out that high-income countries have failed to meet the goal of allocating 0.7% of gross national income (GNI) to development assistance for low-income countries. The discussions emphasized mobilizing investment for low-income countries often referred to as the “Global South,” as well as connecting investors from high-income countries with the least developed countries and strengthening public–private partnerships. The need for a “new Global Fair Deal (a fair international compact)” was also advocated to make it easier for low-income countries to access the global financial system and markets.

On 11–27, the “Riyadh Declaration” was adopted. The declaration presents a concrete roadmap for governments and international partners around the world to mobilize resources to build a greener, fairer world with higher living standards. It links industrialization to the “Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)” and sets out a policy of advancing international trade and industry while fostering healthy communities, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and ensuring clean air. It also aims to realize fair opportunities and improved living standards—particularly in low-income countries—by supporting entrepreneurship by youth and women, expanding skills development and employment opportunities, and promoting digital transformation.

Learn more about policies for overall social development, not just industry → “Summit on Social Development for the first time in 30 years“

Learn more about the climate finance shortfall in low-income countries → “The reality of climate finance burdening low-income countries“

Learn more about the current state of food insecurity → “Severe food crises and malnutrition have increased worldwide for 6 consecutive years“

　　　　　　　　　　　　　→”UN assessment of the state of food systems: Global imbalances in hunger made clear“

Learn more about the current state of unfair supply chains → “Unfair trade pervasive around the world“

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　→”The realities lurking in the Philippine banana industry“

Scene from the International Industry Summit, Saudi Arabia (Photo: UNIDO / Flickr [CC BY-ND 4.0])