Leaders from landlocked developing countries, (LLDCs) will converge in Gaborone, Botswana, this December to address challenges, explore solutions, and forge partnerships for a more equitable and prosperous future.
The Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, known as LLDC3, will showcase innovative solutions and strategic collaborations to “unlock the full potential of these nations.”
LLDC3 is scheduled to take place from 10-13 December.
Here is a breakdown of LLDCs and the agenda for this year’s conference:
What are LLDCs?
LLDCs, as identified by the UN Office for Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (OHRLLS), are countries that do not have direct access to the sea. This geographical isolation obstructs their participation in international trade, connectivity, and economic progress.
OHRLLS has reported that on average, LLDCs are around 851 miles away from a seaport.
Consequently, these nations rely on neighboring transit countries for international market access, resulting in elevated transportation costs – double that of their neighboring countries – and delays in the movement of goods.
This dependence on transit countries also exposes LLDCs to potential political and economic instability.
The challenges faced by LLDCs often lead to reduced foreign direct investment, limited export opportunities, and slower economic growth.
Which countries are LLDCs?
There are 32 LLDCs scattered across Asia, Africa, Europe, and South America. These nations include Afghanistan, Botswana, Ethiopia, and Paraguay. Ethiopia, with a population of approximately 115 million, is the largest LLDC, while Bhutan, with less than one million people, is the smallest.
OHRLLS has revealed that almost 40% of the populations in LLDCs reside in slums, and nearly half of these countries face severe food crises.
Additionally, the working populations in LLDCs earn an average of $1,500 annually, significantly lower than the global average of around $11,000 annually.
What is the history of the LLDC conference?
The LLDC conferences originated from the international community’s acknowledgment that landlocked countries require tailored attention and policies to address their distinct challenges.
The first conference, held in Almaty, Kazakhstan in 2003, was spearheaded by the UN through OHRLLS.
This event marked the initiation of the LLDC agenda, focusing on enhancing transit cooperation and trade facilitation to integrate LLDCs into the global economy more effectively. The Almaty Programme of Action, adopted during this conference, laid the groundwork for ongoing international cooperation, leading to subsequent conferences that built upon its achievements.
The second conference, held in Vienna, Austria in 2014, aimed to evaluate the progress of the Almaty Programme of Action comprehensively and review trade and transit cooperation policies amidst new challenges and opportunities. It also aimed to reaffirm global support for LLDCs by formulating a new partnership framework for the upcoming decade.
The Third UN Conference on LLDCs is themed “Driving Progress through Partnerships.”
Rabab Fatima, the Under Secretary-General and High Representative for LLDCs, emphasized that this year’s theme underscores the urgent need for the accelerated development of LLDCs.
Ms. Fatima highlighted that partnerships are not just beneficial but essential for LLDCs due to their unique territorial constraints. She stressed the importance of collaboration with international organizations, the private sector, and neighboring countries to establish integrated transportation networks, boost trade, share best practices, and ultimately overcome the inherent challenges for sustainable development.
The High Representative stressed the need to recognize the ongoing challenges faced by LLDCs as the conference approaches. She mentioned that a new programme of action will address concrete issues experienced by landlocked developing countries with practical solutions that signify a commitment to driving impactful change.
What are the expectations for this year’s conference?
Gladys Mokhawa, the Permanent Representative of Botswana to the UN for LLDC3, expressed that this year’s conference marks a significant milestone as the first LLDC-focused event held in Africa.
Ms. Mokhawa highlighted that Botswana is prepared to offer its unique hospitality and a platform for shaping a transformative decade of action for Landlocked Developing Countries.
Zia Choudhury, the UN Resident Coordinator in Botswana, conveyed excitement about hosting the conference and stated that in collaboration with governments, civil societies, and other partners, they will develop the Gaborone Programme of Action – a 10-year plan outlining strategies to overcome structural challenges faced by LLDCs.
Mr. Choudhury emphasized the importance of ensuring diverse participation in the conference, ranging from government officials to members of youth organizations, to guarantee its success. He emphasized the role of youth in holding governments and other stakeholders accountable for implementing the plan and shaping the future of development.
The Resident Coordinator expressed hope that participants will leave the conference recognizing the potential of LLDCs in shaping the future of development in Africa and beyond.
He concluded by stating that showcasing the contributions LLDCs have to offer will be a key takeaway from the event.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.