United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation

United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation

United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation is an annual observance that highlights the importance of cooperation among developing countries to promote sustainable development, eradicate poverty, and achieve peace and stability. The day is celebrated to recognise the efforts of the Global South and enhance their collective self-reliance by sharing knowledge, resources, and technical expertise. One of the important aspects of the day is to raise awareness about the benefits of South-South cooperation and showcase successful examples of partnerships.

The concept of South-South cooperation dates back to the 1955 Bandung Conference, which laid the foundation for the cooperation among developing countries. In Australia, this observance is particularly significant as the country is an active participant in South-South partnerships through its work in the Pacific region. Australia has been investing in several projects aimed at strengthening economies and improving living standards in neighbouring countries. This includes capacity building initiatives, regional trade agreements, and development assistance schemes. By participating in these partnerships, Australia contributes to the common goal of improving the quality of life and creating a more equitable global order.

In Australia, United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation is primarily observed through collaborative events and discussions, focusing on the role of Australian government and non-government organisations in fostering South-South cooperation. These events seek to enhance understanding and inspire more effective partnerships in addressing shared challenges in areas such as climate change, health, and education. Marked on 12th September, this day provides an opportunity for Australia and its partners to reflect on the progress made and identify areas for future collaboration, ensuring that the benefits of South-South cooperation are realised across the region.

Facts about United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation

• According to the UN, the countries of the South (those countries that are considered developing) have contributed to more than half of the world’s growth in recent years.
• The objectives of South-South Cooperation according to the UN are:
  1) Foster and strengthen the self-reliance of developing countries by enhancing their creative capacity to find solutions and technological capacities to their development problems
  2) Promote and strengthen collective self-reliance among developing countries
  3) Recognize and respond to the problems and requirements of the least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, small island developing States, and the countries most seriously affected by natural disasters and other crises
• The concept of South-South cooperation emerged in the mid-1970s during discussions among developing countries who sought to reshape the international economic order.
• Australia engages in South-South cooperation through its own development and aid initiatives, which often involve sharing expertise in areas such as disaster risk reduction, agriculture, health, and governance with other developing countries in the region.
• A key focus of Australia's South-South cooperation is on the Asia-Pacific region, which is home to many of the world's least developed countries.

In the News and Trending in Australia for United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Stay informed about how the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC) is working to help Southern countries. This agency works to support countries by implementing cooperative policies.
• Learn more about the UN's South-South Galaxy program. It is a global knowledge sharing and partnership program that connects Southern countries. It allows them to learn and collaborate with one another from far distances.
• As the capital of Australia, Canberra is a hub for political and diplomatic activity. Here, delegates can visit the Australian Parliament House, the National Museum of Australia, and the Australian War Memorial.
• Melbourne is known for its cultural diversity and innovative approaches to sustainability, making it an attractive destination for United Nations delegates interested in learning about innovative solutions to global challenges.