Davos Annual Meeting 2010 - Meeting the Millennium Development Goals

TL;DR

The panel discusses the progress, challenges, and future priorities of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in relation to poverty reduction, women's empowerment, youth involvement, and the role of the private sector.

Transcript

Lord Malloch-Brown, Senior Adviser, Global Redesign Initiative, World Economic Forum: If you look at the size of what he's done, superstars of microfinance, and I think we'll be seeing him on panels like this a lot more in the coming years. Helen Clark, who I am thrilled is with us, she is the Administrator of UNDP, an organization I have very h... Read More

Key Insights

• 🙈 The MDGs have seen significant progress, particularly in areas such as global health, but challenges remain due to the financial crisis and insufficient funding.
• 🔒 Innovative financing mechanisms, public-private partnerships, and complementary channels to fund the MDGs, such as microfinance, are crucial for accelerating progress.

Questions & Answers

Q: How has the financial crisis affected progress towards the MDGs?

The financial crisis has had a significant impact on the progress of the MDGs, with some areas experiencing setbacks and declines in funding. However, it has also highlighted the need for innovative financing and private sector involvement to accelerate progress.

Q: How can the private sector be incentivized to contribute to the achievement of the MDGs?

The private sector can be motivated to contribute through policies that stimulate business involvement and demonstrate the business value of addressing development goals. Highlighting success stories and third-party rankings can also encourage companies to participate.

Q: What are the key challenges in achieving MDG 5, which focuses on maternal health?

MDG 5 is lagging behind other goals due to the lack of funding and a financing mechanism specifically dedicated to safe childbirth. There is a need to prioritize maternal health, integrate comprehensive healthcare approaches, and address barriers to women's access to quality healthcare services.

Q: How can youth be involved in strengthening communities and achieving the MDGs?

Youth involvement is essential in addressing community needs and achieving the MDGs. Governments should focus on providing education and employment opportunities for young people, while also empowering them to be advocates for change and actively participate in decision-making processes.

Q: What is the role of remittances in meeting the MDGs, and how can they be used more effectively?

Remittances, which exceed development aid in many countries, can be used creatively to support poverty reduction and economic development. They can be utilized not only for basic needs but also for securitizing loans and improving credit ratings. Diaspora bonds and other financial mechanisms can be explored to maximize the impact of remittances.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The panelists discuss the current status of the MDGs, highlighting progress made in areas such as global health, but also acknowledging challenges and setbacks due to the financial crisis and lack of funding.

• They emphasize the need for innovative financing mechanisms, public-private partnerships, and complementary channels to fund the MDGs, such as microfinance.

• The panelists also address the importance of leadership, government commitment, and accountability in achieving the MDGs. They stress the need to focus on women's empowerment, youth involvement, and the specific challenges faced by urban communities.