Permanent Mission of India
New York
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Informal Briefing on the UN80 Initiative: Workstream 3
(UN Women/UNFPA Merger, Technology and Data)

Statement by Mr. Surendra Adhana, Counsellor
6 April 2026

Thank you Mr. President for convening this important briefing.

At the outset, allow me to thank Deputy Secretary General Ms. Amina Mohammed, USG Ryder, and other briefers for their valuable remarks and presentations.

2. India aligns with the statement delivered by Uruguay, on behalf of G77 and China. We would like to add some points in our national capacity.

3. India supports efforts under UN80 to create a more effective and efficient United Nations. Any proposal under UN80 should be assessed based on its impact on the ground in achieving the national priorities of host governments, in line with the UN Charter.

4. We take note of the preliminary findings on the proposed merger of UNFPA and UN Women. We acknowledge that strong complementarities already exist between the two entities.

• In a resource-constrained environment, it is essential to streamline mandates, operations, and governance structures wherever possible. It becomes even more desirable pursuant to the adoption of the GA resolution on “mandate creation, implementation and review”.

• We consider that a unified UN entity must produce a leaner governance structure, a simpler and more transparent reporting mechanism, and an effective accountability framework.

5. At the country level, the proposed merger should enable a more integrated and cohesive support mechanism to host governments and generate greater impact through programmatic activities. We look forward to receiving additional information on the proposed unified entity.

Mr. President,

6. We take note of the proposals under Work Packages 15 and 16 on Technology and Data Commons. On the consolidation of ICT services, we would like to underline the indispensable role of the Fifth Committee. On the Data Commons, it is important to incorporate appropriate safeguards before its launch.

7. In conclusion, Mr. President, India reaffirms its commitment to engage constructively on these proposals.

I thank you!