When you start thinking of specialized United Nations agencies, the ones that typically come to mind are heavyweights such as UNESCO, the World Health Organization or the Food and Agriculture Organization.
Less prominent, perhaps, is the U.N. Industrial Development Organization, or UNIDO, whose mandate is to promote industrial development for poverty reduction, inclusive globalization and environmental sustainability. UNIDO, however, is known to be very active within global development circles and punch above its weight — and its relatively small annual budget of $200 million and about 700 permanent staff.
The new development agenda set to be adopted at the U.N. Summit in New York gives UNIDO even more relevance, particularly in light of SDG 9 — “Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.”
About the author
Richard Jones@richard_devex
In his role as Editorial Director Richard oversees content for digital series, reports and events, leading a talented team of writers and editors, conducting high-level video interviews and moderating panels at events. Previously partnerships editor and an associate editor at Devex, Richard brings to bear 15 years of experience as an editor in institutional communications, public affairs and international development. Based in Barcelona, his development experience includes stints in the Dominican Republic, Argentina and Ecuador, as well as extensive work travel in Africa and Asia.
