NIGSD Executive Director Participates in CEPA Annual Meetings in New York

Dr. Sherifa Sherif, the Executive Director of the National Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development (NIGSD) and a member of the Committee of Experts on Public Administration (CEPA) under the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), participated in the 23rd annual meetings of the committee held from April 15-19, 2024, in New York. The meetings focused on “New Insights on Governance to Enhance Sustainable Development Goals and Eradicate Poverty.”

Dr. Sherif made her inaugural contribution during a session titled “Effective Governance Principles for Sustainable Development.” She presented a research paper titled “Building Inclusive Institutions for All: Leaving No One Behind in the Midst of Implementing the Sustainable Development Plan 2030,” in collaboration with committee members Najat Zerrouk, Augustin Fosu, Aigul Kushekbayeva, Yawar Nimesh, and Carlos Santizo.

During the discussion, Dr. Sherif emphasized that leaving no one behind is a cornerstone and central promise of the 2030 Sustainable Development Plan, as well as a fundamental principle of public administration. She highlighted the importance of inter-ministerial cooperation to ensure inclusivity, involving vulnerable groups and other stakeholders in the development of strategies, policies, and projects that prioritize people. Additionally, she underscored the need for monitoring and review processes to address persistent poverty and inequality through participatory and responsible approaches.

Dr. Sherif outlined the recommendations from the research paper, affirming that the commitment to leave no one behind necessitates an inclusive, empowering, coordinated, and sustainable approach involving all stakeholders. This encompasses governments at all levels, the UN system, citizens, the private sector, civil society, and academic institutions. Such an approach targets vulnerable groups and addresses the root causes contributing to enduring inequalities, discrimination, and exclusion through both targeted policies and broader societal changes.

The research paper stressed the initial importance of identifying individuals or groups lagging behind and understanding their specific challenges and needs. It highlighted various criteria for identification, such as discrimination, inequality, geography, governance, social and economic status, and vulnerability to shocks. Additionally, the paper provided an in-depth examination of potential root causes and global measures to ensure the inclusion of vulnerable and marginalized populations, featuring examples of best practices and lessons learned from countries committed to leaving no one behind.

It’s worth noting that the Committee of Experts on Public Administration serves a four-year term, renewable after each period, and comprises 24 international experts in public administration from various countries worldwide. Dr. Sherif was the first Egyptian appointed to this committee in 2021. The committee convenes annually to discuss various topics and policy papers related to administration and governance, submitting its recommendations to the UN Secretary-General for dissemination to member states for implementation.