Annual Results Report 2023

This report presents an annual overview of the results achieved by the United Nations system in Uruguay.

2023 was a challenging year for humanity. Following the severe impact of the pandemic and the subsequent outbreak of war in Ukraine, 2023 saw a record number of refugees and displaced persons globally, stemming from humanitarian crises in places like Sudan, Haiti, or Syria. Additionally, the situation in the Middle East highlighted geopolitical rifts and the challenges we face. Our Secretary-General, António Guterres, has warned that the world is "entering the era of chaos."

In this tumultuous and uncertain global environment, how did Uruguay fare? The country continues to exhibit a high per capita income, as recognized in international comparisons, with levels of social cohesion above the regional average, as well as solid institutional trust. Regarding the 2030 Agenda, 42% of the Sustainable Development Goals are on track.

Annual economic growth slowed down, although in 2023 the average wage surpassed pre-pandemic levels. Poverty, particularly affecting children and women, has remained stagnant at 10% for a decade, and today it stands, alongside security concerns, as one of the main challenges for Uruguay's prosperous future.

2023 marked the third year of implementing the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2021-2025 in Uruguay. Over the past year, nearly $47 million was executed in projects and other programmatic activities. For example, we launched the National Human Rights Plan, implemented a new Fund to promote clean energies, and supported the population census. Moreover, we contributed to improvements in areas such as sustainable production, quality employment, mental health, science, crime prevention, gender equality, and work with migrants and refugees, always striving to leave no one behind.

A special mention goes to the initiative "Dialogues on the Future of Uruguay." More than a thousand representatives from the government, political parties, civil society, the private sector, labor unions, academia, youth, and the international community have participated in eleven thematic dialogues held since late 2022. The proposals resulting from this national dialogue will be presented to presidential candidates and Uruguayan society in 2024. In summary, Uruguay continues to be a reference in its commitment to multilateralism and the 2030 Agenda. If it boldly unleashes its full potential and sets sail for sustainable development, it can become an inspiration for other countries in the region. The United Nations system will contribute to this endeavor with all its effort.