United Nations in Mauritius

The Sustainable Development Goals in Mauritius are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Mauritius:

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Publication

30 March 2026

2025 UN Country Annual Results Report Mauritius

In 2025, as the United Nations marked its 80th anniversary, Mauritius confronted a defining moment. Accelerating climate impacts, global economic uncertainty, rapid technological change and growing pressures on social cohesion are not distant global trends for Small Island States – they are daily realities that demand decisive leadership, sustained reform and effective multilateral partnership.
Since independence, the United Nations has been a trusted partner of Mauritius. Today, 24 UN entities work alongside the Government through the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2024-2028, organised around three pillars: People, Prosperity and Planet. In 2025, the partnership took on renewed urgency. Together, we accompanied Mauritius through policy milestones – from finalizing a ground breaking Digital Blueprint, to launching the national Vision 2050 exercise, to brokering cross regional expertise on sustainable ocean finance – in each case accompanying nationally led processes with global knowledge and technical resources.The results were concrete.Under the People pillar, the UN strengthened institutions and social systems at a moment when resilience and equity mattered most. The Government adopted an implementation roadmap for the Health Sector Strategic Plan, moving from strategy to operational readiness. Evidence-based programmes expanded access to sexual and reproductive health services, while targeted initiatives in gender-based violence prevention and youth empowerment reinforced rights and dignity for women, girls, young people, persons with disabilities, migrants and those facing structural disadvantage. Across these efforts, the UN held firm on a core principle: Leaving No One Behind.Under the Prosperity pillar, the focus was on building resilience in the face of a rapidly shifting global landscape. The National Employment Policy, shaped through extensive social dialogue, marked a strategic reform to align employment growth with inclusion, productivity and decent work. Women-led entrepreneurship programmes and investments in digital skills development laid the foundations for a more diversified and future-ready economy, including in the growing blue economy. Under the Planet pillar, the UN supported Mauritius’s leadership as a Small Island Developing State and ocean state on the front line of climate change. In 2025, Mauritius strengthened its early warning systems, improved community-led climate and health surveillance, and expanded nature-based solutions for ecosystem resilience. Through the Early Warning for All initiative, the country advanced its disaster preparedness infrastructure, including coordination systems for disaster risk reduction, mobile network readiness for emergency alerts and national capacity for the Common Alerting Protocol. These results were made possible by strong national ownership, reform momentum and close partnerships with the Government of Mauritius, civil society, the private sector, academia, development partners and communities. The role of the UN was clear: to accompany, convene and enable, broker knowledge, and bring global norms, evidence and expertise to reinforce nationally driven solutions. Equally important was how these results were delivered. In line with UN reform and the Quadrennial Comprehensive Policy Review (QCPR), the UN Country Team worked more closely and more effectively together through empowered Results Groups, joint analysis, shared services and integrated delivery. This approach reduced fragmentation, improved efficiency and strengthened the impact of collective action.
As the United Nations enters its ninth decade, this Annual Results Report is both a statement of progress and a signal of intent. The road to 2030 will require sustained reform, strategic investment and principled leadership. With continued partnership and a steadfast commitment to inclusion, Mauritius is well positioned to turn today’s global challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities.
On behalf of the United Nations Country Team, I extend my sincere appreciation to the Government of Mauritius and all our partners for their leadership, collaboration and trust. Together, we remain committed to advancing a sustainable future for Mauritius – one that safeguards its people, protects its ocean environment and ensures that no one is left behind.Lisa Simrique Singh
United Nations Resident Coordinator
for Mauritius and Seychelles

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2025 UN Mauritius Annual Results Report 2025 Cover

Speech

22 July 2025

Secretary-General's remarks on Climate Action "A Moment of Opportunity: Supercharging the Clean Energy Age"

July 22, 2025 - The report "Seizing the Moment of Opportunity: Supercharging the New Energy Era of Renewables, Efficiency, and Electrification" provides an overview of the status of the accelerating transition away from fossil fuels to clean energy, underscoring the economic imperative and opportunities inherent in continuing that shift. The following is the address delivered by the UN Secretary-General António Guterres: Excellencies,Ladies and gentlemen,Friends joining us from around the world, The headlines are dominated by a world in trouble. By conflict and climate chaos.By rising human suffering.By growing geo-political divides.But amidst the turmoil, another story is being written.And its implications will be profound.Throughout history, energy has shaped the destiny of humankind – from mastering
fire, to harnessing steam, to splitting the atom.Now, we are on the cusp of a new era. Fossil fuels are running out of road.The sun is rising on a clean energy age.Just follow the money.$2 trillion went into clean energy last year – that’s $800 billion more than fossil fuels, and up almost 70% in ten years.And new data released today from the International Renewable Energy Agency shows that solar – not so long ago four times the cost of fossil fuels – is now 41% cheaper.Offshore wind – 53%.And over 90% of new renewables worldwide produced electricity for less than the cheapest new fossil fuel alternative.This is not just a shift in power. This is a shift in possibility.Yes, in repairing our relationship with the climate.Already, the carbon emissions saved by solar and wind globally are almost equivalent to what the whole European Union produces in a year.But this transformation is fundamentally about energy security and people’s security.It’s about smart economics.Decent jobs, public health, advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. And delivering clean and affordable energy to everyone, everywhere.Today, we are releasing a special report with the support of UN agencies and partners -- the International Energy Agency, the IMF, IRENA, the OECD and the World Bank.The report shows how far we have come in the decade since the Paris Agreement sparked a clean energy revolution. And it highlights the vast benefits – and actions needed – to accelerate a just transition globally.Renewables already nearly match fossil fuels in global installed power capacity.And that’s just the beginning. Last year, almost all the new power capacity built came from renewables. And every continent on Earth added more renewables capacity than fossil fuels.The clean energy future is no longer a promise. It’s a fact. No government. No industry. No special interest can stop it. Of course, the fossil fuel lobby of some fossil fuel companies will try – and we know the lengths to which they will go.But I have never been more confident that they will fail – because we have passed the point of no return. For three powerful reasons. First, market economics.For decades, emissions and economic growth rose together.No more.In many advanced economies, emissions have peaked, but growth continues.In 2023 alone, clean energy sectors drove 10% of global GDP growth.In India, 5%. The United States, 6%. China – a leader in the energy transition – 20%.And in the European Union, nearly 33%.And clean energy sector jobs now outnumber fossil fuel jobs – employing almost 35 million people worldwide.Even Texas – the heart of the American fossil fuel industry – now leads the US in renewables.Why? Because it makes economic sense.And yet fossil fuels still enjoy a 9 to 1 advantage in consumption subsidies globally – a clear market distortion. Add to that the unaccounted costs of climate damages on people and planet – and the distortion is even greater.Countries that cling to fossil fuels are not protecting their economies – they are sabotaging them.Driving up costs.Undermining competitiveness.Locking-in stranded assets.And missing the greatest economic opportunity of the 21st century.Excellencies,
Dear friends,Second -- renewables are here to stay because they are the foundation of energy security and sovereignty.Let’s be clear: The greatest threat to energy security today is in fossil fuels.They leave economies and people at the mercy of price shocks, supply disruptions, and geopolitical turmoil. Just look at Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. A war in Europe led to a global energy crisis.Oil and gas prices soared.Electricity and food bills followed.

In 2022 average households around the world saw energy costs jump 20%. Modern and competitive economies need stable, affordable energy. Renewables offer both.There are no price spikes for sunlight.No embargoes on wind.Renewables can put power – literally and figuratively – in the hands of people and governments.And almost every nation has enough sun, wind, or water to become energy self-sufficient.Renewables mean real energy security. Real energy sovereignty. And real freedom from fossil-fuel volatility.Dear friends,The third and final reason why there is no going back on renewables: Easy access.You can’t build a coal plant in someone’s backyard.But you can deliver solar panels to the most remote village on earth.Solar and wind can be deployed faster, cheaper and more flexibly than fossil fuels ever could.And while nuclear will be part of the global energy mix, it can never fill the access gaps.All of this is a game-changer for the hundreds of millions of people still living without electricity – most of them in Africa, a continent bursting with renewable potential.By 2040, Africa could generate 10 times more electricity than it needs – entirely from renewables.   We are already seeing small-scale and off-grid renewable technologies lighting homes, and powering schools and businesses in remote areas.And in places like Pakistan for example, people-power is fueling a solar surge – consumers are driving the clean energy boom. Excellencies,
Dear friends,The energy transition is unstoppable.But the transition is not yet fast enough or fair enough. OECD countries and China account for 80% of renewable power capacity installed worldwide.Brazil and India make up nearly 10%.Africa -- just 1.5%.Meanwhile, the climate crisis is laying waste to lives and livelihoods.Climate disasters in small island states have wiped out over 100% of GDP. In the United States, they are pushing insurance premiums through the roof. And the 1.5 degree limit is in unprecedented peril.To keep it within reach, we must drastically speed up the reduction of emissions – and the reach of the clean energy transition.With manufacturing capacity racing, prices plummeting, and COP30 fast approaching…This is our moment of opportunity.We must seize it.We can do so by taking action in six opportunity areas. First – by using new national climate plans to go all-out on the energy transition. Too often, governments send mixed messages:Bold renewable targets on one day. New fossil fuel subsidies and expansions the next. The next national climate plans, or NDCs, are due in a matter of months.They must bring clarity and certainty.G20 countries must lead. They produce 80% of global emissions. The principle of common but differentiated responsibilities must apply but every country must do more.Ahead of COP30 in Brazil this November, they must submit new plans.I invite leaders to present their new NDCs at an event I will host in September, during General Assembly High-level week. These must:Cover all emissions, across the entire economy.Align with the 1.5 degree limit.Integrate energy, climate and sustainable development priorities into one coherent vision.And deliver on global promises:To double energy efficiency and triple renewables capacity by 2030.And to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels.These plans must be backed by long-term roadmaps for a just transition to net-zero energy systems – in line with global net-zero by 2050.And they must be underpinned by policies that show that the clean energy future is not just inevitable – but investable. Policies that create clear regulations and a pipeline of projects.That enhance public-private partnerships – unlocking capital and innovation.That put a meaningful price on carbon.And that end subsidies and international public finance for fossil fuels – as promised. Second, this is our moment of opportunity to build the energy systems of the 21st century. The technology is moving ahead.   In just fifteen years, the cost of battery storage systems for electricity grids has dropped over 90%. But here’s the problem. Investments in the right infrastructure are not keeping up. For every dollar invested in renewable power, just 60 cents go to grids and storage. That ratio should be one-to-one. We are building renewable power – but not connecting it fast enough.There’s three times more renewable energy waiting to be plugged into grids than was added last year.And fossil fuels still dominate the global total energy mix.We must act now and invest in the backbone of a clean energy future:In modern, flexible and digital grids – including regional integration.In a massive scale-up of energy storage.In charging networks – to power the electric vehicle revolution.On the other hand we need energy efficiency but also electrification -- across buildings, transport and industry.This is how we unlock the full promise of renewables – and build energy systems that are clean, secure and fit for the future.Third, this is our moment of opportunity to meet the world’s surging energy demand sustainably.More people are plugging in.More cities are heating up – with soaring demand for cooling.And more technologies – from AI to digital finance – are devouring electricity.Governments must aim to meet all new electricity demand with renewables.AI can boost efficiency, innovation, and resilience in energy systems. And we must take profit in it.But it is also energy-hungry.A typical AI data-center eats-up as much electricity as 100,000 homes.The largest ones will soon use twenty times that. By 2030, data centres could consume as much electricity as all of Japan does today.This is not sustainable – unless we make it so.And the technology sector must be out front.Today I call on every major tech firm to power all data centres with 100% renewables by 2030.And – along with other industries – they must use water sustainably in cooling systems.The future is being built in the cloud.It must be powered by the sun, the wind, and the promise of a better world. Excellencies
Dear friends,Fourth, this is the moment of opportunity for a just energy transition.The clean energy that we must deliver must also deliver equity, dignity and opportunity for all.That means governments leading a just transition.With support, education and training – for fossil fuel workers, young people, women, Indigenous Peoples and others – so that they can thrive in the new energy economy.With stronger social protection – so no one is left behind. And with international cooperation to help low-income countries that are highly-dependent on fossil fuels and struggling to make the shift.But justice doesn’t stop here.The critical minerals that power the clean energy revolution are often found in countries that have long been exploited.And today, we see history repeating. Communities mistreated.Rights trampled.Environments trashed.Nations stuck at the bottom of value chains – while others reap rewards.And extractive models digging deeper holes of inequality and harm.This must end.Developing countries can play a major role in diversifying sources of supply. The UN Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals has shown the way forward – with a path grounded in human rights, justice and equity.Today, I call on governments, businesses and civil society to work with us to deliver its recommendations.Let’s build a future that is not only green – but just.Not only fast – but fair. Not only transformative – but inclusive.Fifth, we have a moment of opportunity to use trade and investment to supercharge the energy transition.Clean energy needs more than ambition.It needs access – to technologies, materials, and manufacturing.But these are concentrated in just a few countries.And global trade is fragmenting.Trade policy must support climate policy.Countries committed to the new energy era must come together to ensure that trade and investment drive it forward.By building diverse, secure, and resilient supply chains.By cutting tariffs on clean energy goods.By unlocking investment and trade – including through South-South cooperation.And by modernizing outdated investment treaties – starting with Investor-State Dispute Settlement provisions.Today, fossil fuel interests are weaponizing these provisions to delay the transition, particularly in several developing countries.Reform is urgent.The race for the new must not be a race for the few.It must be a relay – shared, inclusive and resilient.Let’s make trade a tool for transformation. Sixth and finally, this is our moment of opportunity to unleash the full force of finance – driving investment to markets with massive potential.Despite soaring demand and vast renewables potential -- developing countries are being locked out of the energy transition.Africa is home to 60% of the world’s best solar resources. But it received just 2% of global clean energy investment last year.Zoom out, and the picture is just as stark. In the last decade, only one in every five clean energy dollars went to emerging and developing countries outside China.To keep the 1.5 degree limit alive -- and deliver universal energy access – annual clean energy investment in those countries must rise more than fivefold by 2030. That demands bold national policies. And concrete international action to: Reform the global financial architecture.Drastically increase the lending capacity of multilateral development banks -- making them bigger, bolder, and better able to leverage massive amounts of private finance at reasonable costs;And take effective action on debt relief – and scale up proven tools like debt for climate swaps. Today, developing countries pay outlandish sums for both debt and equity financing – in part because of outdated risk models, bias and broken assumptions that boost the cost of capital.Credit ratings agencies and investors must modernize.

We need a new approach to risk that reflects:The promise of clean energy.The rising cost of climate chaos.And the danger of stranded fossil fuel assets.I urge parties to unite to solve the complex challenges facing some developing countries in the energy transition – such as early retirement of coal plants. Excellencies,
Dear friends,The fossil fuel age is flailing and failing.We are in the dawn of a new energy era.An era where cheap, clean, abundant energy powers a world rich in economic opportunity.Where nations have the security of energy autonomy.And the gift of power is a gift for all.That world is within reach.But it won’t happen on its own.Not fast enough.Not fair enough.It is up to us. We have the tools to power the future for humanity.   Let’s make the most of them. This is our moment of opportunity. And I Thank you.

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10 December 2024

Breaking the Silence: Addressing Gender-Based Violence and Upholding Human Rights

The theme for this year Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now emphasizes how human rights are a transformative force for good. Human Rights Day also marks the last day of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence. Because we live in a world where one of the most pervasive abuses of human rights is perpetuated every day – violence against women and girls. The figures are astounding. Globally an estimated 736 million women—almost one in three—have been subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both at least once.[1] While 1 in 4 adolescent girls have suffered from intimate partner violence. The women in Mauritius fare no better with the latest available showing that around 24% of women had experienced some form of gender-based violence (GBV). Of course, the reality of the situation may be worse than the numbers are showing as cases of violence and abuse within the confines of a home, cases against vulnerable people such as people with disability often go unreported.[2] This comes at a significant cost not just to the women concerned but to their families, their communities and to the country.In recent years, Mauritius has made significant strides in addressing GBV and promoting human rights. UN Member States participated in a High-Level event to mark Human Rights 75, last year where Mauritius made a commitment to uphold human rights including to actively pursue efforts to combat GBV. Several laws aimed at protecting women from violence have been enacted, including the Protection from Domestic Violence Act (1997) to provide for protection of spouses against domestic violence and in 2016 to include severe penalties to perpetrators of domestic violence. Additionally, a High-Level Committee on the Elimination of Gender Based Violence meets under the Chairmanship of the Prime Minister to drive and monitor implementation of the National Strategic Action Plan on GBV. And the “Lespwar” app developed with the support of the UN is downloadable and accessible for any age.However, the journey is far from over. As we observe Human Rights Day, it's crucial to reflect on the progress made and the work that lies ahead. These legal measures are vital, but they must be accompanied by robust implementation and support systems. A high-level panel discussion held by the UN in Mauritius in collaboration with several of our diplomatic partners highlighted that although laws exist against GBV on the ground implementation of these laws from the frontliners to the law courts does not always provide the necessary support to the victim. Sharing a youth’s perspective our RCO intern reflected: “Technology races forward, the internet has become the centerpoint of our lives, yet human prejudice remains stubbornly anchored in the dark ages. We can program computers to think, but we can't reprogram the beliefs that chain women to their abusers.”Tackling this unacceptable breach of human rights from different angles, the UN in Mauritius is committed to supporting initiatives to:Raise Awareness & change attitudes: Education plays a critical role in this regard, fostering a culture of respect and equality from a young age. Community-based initiatives and partnerships with civil society organizations are equally important in driving change at the grassroots level.Support survivors: strengthen the capacities of service providers, such as police and healthcare professionals to ensure that survivors feel supported and empowered to seek help is crucial in breaking the cycle of violence.Engage men & boys: as allies and advocates for gender equality can contribute to changing harmful norms & behaviours to promote positive masculinity and respectful relationships. As we continue the fight against GBV in Mauritius, it is essential to build on existing successes and address emerging challenges. Collaboration between government, the private sector, civil society, and international partners remains key. On Human Rights Day, let us renew our commitment to transform our societies into places where equality, dignity, and respect for all prevail.
[1] UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls | UN Women – Headquarters [2] PMO - National Strategy TP FINAL WEB.pdf (govmu.org)

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02 April 2026

From clean energy to circular innovation, Mauritius powers a just green transition

Mauritius is demonstrating that climate action can drive both social inclusion and economic innovation. Through the UNDP-led Green Climate Fund (GCF) project, Accelerating the Transformational Shift to a Low-Carbon Economy in Mauritius, the country is advancing an ambitious renewable energy transition aligned with its commitment to reach 60 percent renewable energy by 2035.At community level, the transition is already improving lives. More than 3,000 low-income households across Mauritius, Rodrigues and Agaléga have received rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, providing up to 100 kWh of free electricity monthly for 20 years. For vulnerable families, this translates into annual savings of approximately $120, easing financial pressure and allowing scarce resources to be redirected to food, education and small business investments.Over 335 NGOs, charitable and religious institutions are also benefiting from solar installations, reducing operating costs and strengthening community service delivery.At national level, the transformation is systemic. The electricity grid has been modernized through the installation of an 18 MW battery energy storage system, automatic generation control and an advanced distribution management system, enabling the safe integration of more than 200 MW of intermittent renewable energy. To date, nearly 13,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions have been avoided, with fuel savings estimated at $1.75 million. Yet Mauritius is going further. As electric vehicle adoption expands to reduce transport emissions, which account for roughly a quarter of national greenhouse gases, the end-of-life management of lithium-ion batteries has emerged as a new policy challenge. "We can turn the challenges of battery waste into opportunities for economic growth and environmental preservation." - Dhananjay Ramfulm Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Regional IntegrationWith support from the International Trade Centre (ITC) through its EU-funded Climate Competitiveness project, Mauritius is exploring a regional approach to battery recycling. A recent trade policy study proposes regulatory reforms, including Extended Producer Responsibility mechanisms and revised customs codes, to improve investment conditions for establishing a regional recycling facility in the Indian Ocean.Mauritian MSMEs and business organizations were capacitated to use environmental data and the ITC Green Performance Toolkit (GPT) through a mix of virtual and in-country activities. A representative of DKD Co Ltd, Mauritius attested, "This toolkit empowers us to optimize our resource management, significantly reducing waste while maximizing the energy efficiency of our entire business model."By linking renewable energy deployment with forward-looking circular economy solutions, Mauritius is ensuring that today’s clean technologies do not become tomorrow’s environmental burden.Together, these initiatives reflect a holistic model for Small Island Developing States: one that combines poverty reduction, institutional strengthening, grid innovation and green industrial development — turning climate ambition into inclusive and sustainable transformation. Find out more about what climate action the UN is driving in Mauritius: 2025 UN Country Annual Results Report Mauritius | United Nations in Mauritius

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02 April 2026

Empowering environmental journalism to counter misinformation

As a journalist based in Rodrigues, Louis David Casimir has come to realize that reporting on climate change is not just about sharing news — it is about helping people understand complex realities that affect their daily lives. In Small Island Developing States where communities face increasing climate risks, access to accurate and trustworthy information is essential for resilience.In 2025, Louis participated in a training programme supported by UNESCO that brought together journalists from across Eastern Africa and the Indian Ocean. Implemented in partnership with the Indian Ocean Commission, the University of Mauritius, Media Trust and Africa 21, the initiative combined regional and national training with mentorship. It strengthened their ability to interpret scientific evidence, verify information and communicate environmental issues clearly and responsibly.One of the biggest challenges journalists face is making complex climate science accessible to the public. "As I often say, our first duty is to educate ourselves and master the subjects before informing the public. We are the link between institutions, real-life situations and the population." The training equipped the journalists with practical tools in fact-checking, data interpretation and responsible digital engagement, helping ensure that environmental reporting remains credible and evidence-based. The programme also strengthened connections among journalists across the region, creating a network of professionals committed to improving environmental reporting. Building on this momentum, Media Trust secured $30,000 through UNESCO’s International Programme for the Development of Communication to establish a regional hub dedicated to training journalists on environmental challenges in Indian Ocean countries.For Rodrigues and Mauritius, where climate shocks demand timely and reliable communication, initiatives like this are essential. By strengthening journalists’ skills and supporting media institutions, UNESCO is helping ensure that accurate information reaches the public — empowering communities to make informed decisions for the future of our islands and our planet. Find out more about the work of the UN in Mauritius here: 2025 UN Country Annual Results Report Mauritius | United Nations in Mauritius

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01 April 2026

UN engages the private sector to tackle workplace GBV

Mauritius took a significant step forward in addressing GBV in the world of work. The newly launched Workplace GBV Toolkit will serve as a practical resource designed to help employers prevent and respond to GBV within their organizations. Co-created with more than 20 companies and key stakeholders, including employer federations, human resources associations, trade unions and gender experts, the toolkit provides practical tools to assess GBV risks, strengthen workplace policies, raise staff awareness and establish confidential, survivor-centred reporting mechanisms. It responds to a persistent challenge in Mauritius’s close-knit business environment, where informal norms, hierarchical structures and fear of reputational risk often discourage reporting and limit enforcement of policies. “We’ve always said that economic sustainability must go hand in hand with social responsibility. This toolkit is a concrete step towards safer, more equitable workplaces and we’re proud to have built it in partnership with UNFPA.” - Kevin Ramkaloan, CEO Business Mauritius The initiative builds on recent national progress, including the adoption of the Gender-Based Violence Act (2023) and the ratification of International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 190 on violence and harassment in the world of work. However, it goes further by translating legal commitments into practical workplace action. Early uptake signals strong momentum. More than 40 companies across sectors — including finance, ICT, manufacturing and hospitality — have begun piloting the toolkit following engagement workshops with designated GBV Champions. Initial feedback indicates that while businesses recognize the importance of safer workplaces, they require clear, context-specific guidance to move from commitment to implementation. By fostering accountability and equipping employers with actionable tools, the partnership positions Mauritius as a regional leader in private sector engagement on GBV. As rollout and monitoring continue, the model is being explored for adaptation in additional sectors, contributing to safer, more equitable workplaces nationwide. Read more about what the UN is doing on GBV in Mauritius: 2025 UN Country Annual Results Report Mauritius | United Nations in Mauritius

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03 November 2025

UN80 in Mauritius

As the United Nations marks 80 years of service worldwide, the UN family in Mauritius brought the anniversary to life through three initiatives focused on sustainability and partnership: environmental restoration at La Vallée de Ferney, dialogue with the private sector and youth at the UN–MCCI roundtable, and a city clean‑up tackling cigarette‑butt pollution in Port Louis. Rooted in Nature: “80 Trees for UN80” at La Vallée de FerneyThe UN80 celebrations began on 24 October 2025 — UN Day — at La Vallée de Ferney, a living example of conservation success and community-led environmental restoration.In partnership with La Vallée de Ferney, the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, and with support from the GEF Small Grants Programme, UN staff and partners participated in the planting of “80 Trees for UN80.” The initiative symbolized the UN’s enduring roots in sustainable development and its forward-looking commitment to climate resilience and biodiversity protection.The site itself tells a powerful story. Once overrun by invasive species, nine hectares of native ebony forest have been rehabilitated through science-based conservation and local community engagement. Endemic plant species have been restored, rare wildlife protected, and local jobs created, demonstrating how environmental sustainability and livelihoods can advance together.Each tree planted under the UN80 initiative was linked symbolically to the SDGs, serving as a living legacy grounded in local action and global ambition. Beyond planting, participants engaged in hands-on learning, from nursery practices to sustainable land management, reinforcing how community expertise and ecological science combine to create lasting impact. Driving Sustainable Growth: UN–MCCI Roundtable on PartnershipsAs part of the UN80 programme, attention then turned to the role of the private sector, education, and youth in shaping tomorrow’s development pathways.At the MCCI Business School in Ebène, the UN and the Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) convened a roundtable on “Fostering Partnerships for Sustainable Development.” The dialogue brought together business leaders, students, higher education institutions, and UN agencies to explore how sustainability is redefining what business success means.For Mauritius, a small island developing state exposed to climate, economic and global shocks, sustainability is both an imperative and an opportunity. The discussion highlighted how Mauritian companies are already leading in green innovation, sustainable finance, circular economy solutions and responsible value chains, positioning the country as a regional model.UN agencies shared concrete examples of collaboration with the private sector, from ethical recruitment and skills mobility to climate‑smart agriculture, entrepreneurship, ecosystem restoration and SDG‑aligned investment. A strong message emerged: sustainability is no longer an add‑on — it is a source of competitiveness, resilience and social value.Central to the discussion was the role of youth and education. By linking students to real‑world sustainability practices, the UN‑MCCI partnership aims to nurture a new generation of leaders who see collaboration, ethics and innovation as core to development. Cleaning the Capital: Citizen Action in Port LouisThe UN80 celebrations concluded with a symbolic yet powerful public action in the heart of the capital.On 31 October 2025, UN agencies, the NGO VISA, the Municipality of Port Louis, and dozens of volunteers came together to collect cigarette butts from the streets surrounding the Port Louis Municipal Council.Often overlooked, cigarette butts are the world’s most littered item, releasing toxic chemicals and microplastics that pollute water systems and harm marine life. In Mauritius, their prevalence also reflects a deeper public health challenge.This initiative linked SDG 3 (Good Health and Well‑Being) with environmental protection and responsible citizenship. It complemented Mauritius’s strong leadership in tobacco control, including its early ratification of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and recent adoption of plain packaging and smoke‑free public spaces.The UN80 clean‑up transformed UN Day into a moment of shared responsibility, reminding citizens that individual choices have collective consequences, for health, the environment and sustainable development. Together, these three initiatives captured the spirit of UN80 in Mauritius: rooted in local realities, driven by partnerships, and focused on tangible impact.

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14 August 2025

Prize-Giving Ceremony for Youth in Focus SDG Photo Competition

On 14 August 2025, to mark International Youth Day, the United Nations in Mauritius hosted the Youth in Focus – SDG Photography Prize-Giving Ceremony at the Institut Français de Maurice. The event brought together youth, government officials, UN representatives, diplomats, private sector partners, and creative professionals to honour the winners of a national photography competition and celebrate the power of youth-led action for sustainable development.Launched on UN Day 2024, the competition invited Mauritian youth aged 14–25 to visually interpret the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the themes of People, Prosperity, and Planet. Between October 2024 and April 2025, submissions were received, offering a unique lens on the challenges and hopes shaping communities across the island.A Platform for Youth EmpowermentWith less than five years remaining to achieve the 2030 Agenda, the urgency to mobilize all generations, especially young people, is greater than ever. The Youth in Focus initiative was designed to spotlight youth as strategic partners in development, using photography not only as an art form but as a tool for advocacy, storytelling, and change.From climate action and education to food security and plastic pollution, the entries reflected the lived realities of young Mauritians and their commitment to shaping a more inclusive and resilient future.The initiative also underscored the transformative power of art. Photography, as a medium, transcends age, background, and identity, serving as a connector that gives voice to the unheard and creates space for dialogue. The submissions revealed not only artistic talent, but also a deep awareness of the challenges and possibilities facing Mauritius and the world.Youth Voices at the CentreThe Prize-Giving Ceremony was a call to action. In her address, Ms. Lisa Singh, UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles, emphasized:“Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the changemakers of today. Through photography as a medium, we celebrate their creativity, voice, and power to shape an inclusive and resilient future where every citizen lives life to the fullest. The UN stands with every young person: keep showing up, speaking out, and driving change.”In a thoughtful reflection on the competition’s core values, Mrs. Aneeta Ghoorah, Ombudsperson for Children, underscored how the initiative:“...resonates deeply with the mandate of the Office of the Ombudsperson for Children – to uphold and promote the rights and dignity of every child in Mauritius as enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Central to their rights is the freedom for you youngsters to express your views, share your concerns and voice out your aspirations.”The evening also featured remarks from Mr. Ricaud Auckbur, Chief Technical Officer at the Ministry of Education and Human Resource, who reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to widening opportunities for young people. His presence underscored national efforts to nurture youth creativity, invest in their potential, and empower them to become genuine agents of change in shaping Mauritius’s future.A stirring performance by Mauritian artist Azor added a vibrant cultural dimension to the evening, blending traditional rhythms with contemporary storytelling. Her dynamic presence had the audience clapping, singing, and laughing along, setting a joyful and inclusive tone that carried through the entire celebration.Youth as Strategic StakeholdersMauritius is home to over 175,000 young people aged 15–24, representing 14 percent of the population. Globally, youth make up 1.2 billion people yet remain underrepresented in decision-making spaces. Only 2.5 percent of parliamentarians worldwide are under 30, and two-thirds of the world’s poor are children and youth.Beyond the competition, Mauritian youth continue to lead across sectors, in the National Youth Parliament and Diaspora Volunteering Project and regional platforms like the Indian Ocean Climate Conference for Youth. These initiatives reflect a growing movement of youth shaping policy, driving climate action, and promoting solidarity across island nations.Recognizing this, the UN in Mauritius continues to champion youth-led development through the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). From inclusive education and climate resilience to innovation and entrepreneurship, youth are central to national progress.Building Momentum Through PartnershipThe success of Youth in Focus reflects the strength of collaboration. The UN in Mauritius acknowledges the vital contributions of the Government of Mauritius, SBM, ER Group, Constance Hotels & Resorts, and the professional photographers whose mentoring videos helped participants bring their visions to life. These partnerships demonstrate how creative engagement can unlock new pathways for progress, especially when youth are empowered to lead.Looking AheadAs the 2030 deadline approaches, initiatives like Youth in Focus are catalysts for change. By amplifying youth voices and showcasing their leadership, the UN in Mauritius reaffirms its commitment to building a future that is inclusive, resilient, and driven by those who have the most at stake.As Ms. Singh reminded participants, every submission told a story worth sharing. In a world where youth voices often go unheard, initiatives like Youth in Focus affirm that every young person has the power to dream boldly, act decisively, and shape a future full of opportunity.The Sustainable Development Goals are a shared promise that must be fulfilled with youth, and for youth.

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Press Release

10 March 2026

Justice in Practice: A Multi-Stakeholder Workshop on Women’s Rights in Vision 2050

In her opening remarks, the UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles, Ms. Lisa Simrique Singh highlighted that the challenges we face are not gender neutral, our policies and development strategies cannot afford to be gender blind. The Hon. Mrs. Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, highlighted that "Rights. Justice. Action — these are not aspirations for Mauritius. They are obligations. And this government will meet them."The Hon Gavin Patrick Cyril Glover, SC, Attorney-General stated that “The work before us is not glamorous. Much of it happens in drafting rooms, in committee meetings, in the slow revision of procedural rules. But it is essential. A legal system that does not protect women fully cannot credibly claim to protect justice fully.” Dr. The Hon. Mrs. Jyoti Jeetun, Minister of Financial Services and Economic Planning, emphasized that “Gender should become a design principle, not an add-on. In every area – jobs, justice, finance, climate –we must ask: what does this mean for girls and women most at risk of being left behind?”Through the sharing of lived realities and the application of strategic foresight, the workshop elevated grassroots voices within national development planning and generated civil society-informed recommendations. Participants highlighted the persistent gap between rights guaranteed in law and justice experienced in practice, particularly for survivors navigating reporting and legal systems that are not always survivor-centered. Discussions underscored the need for stronger coordination across legal, medical and social support services, enhanced training for justice actors, and trauma-informed approaches to ensure survivors can access justice safely and with dignity. These outcomes will contribute to the mainstreaming of women’s rights in Vision 2050 and reinforce Mauritius’ commitment to human rights and equal protection under the law. For media inquiries, please contact:Mithulina Chatterjee, Head of Resident Coordinator Office Email: mithulina.chatterjee@un.org

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Press Release

10 December 2025

International Human Rights Day “Our Everyday Essentials”: UN and Government Champion Digital Safety for Women, Girls, and Children

Digital spaces are now integral to everyday life in Mauritius, yet they expose children and youth to growing online risks—from cyberbullying and harassment to grooming, identity theft, and the non-consensual sharing of images. These dangers disproportionately affect girls and young women, threatening their safety, dignity, and future opportunities. Addressing these risks is urgent not only to protect the most vulnerable but also to ensure that technology becomes a tool for empowerment rather than harm. By safeguarding digital rights, Mauritius affirms its commitment to nurturing a generation that can thrive confidently and responsibly in the online world. To celebrate the culmination of 16 Days of Activism to ‘UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls’ which was kickstarted on 25 November and ends today on 10 December 2025 - on International Human Rights Day - the UN team, in collaboration with the Ministries of Information Technology Communication and Innovation, Gender and Family Welfare, and Education and Human Resource, as well as the Office of the Ombudsperson for Children launched a campaign to place online safety and digital rights at the forefront of national dialogue. A practical booklet and series of informational videos were launched to support young people, families, educators, and caregivers, featuring DIVA - the official government-affiliated digital persona - to promote responsible digital citizenship and affirm safe technology use for all women and girls. UN Resident Coordinator Lisa Singh said: “This is an important joint initiative to build capacity and raise awareness on digital violence as a critical human rights issue affecting children and girls. The launch of the booklet and videos resources by reaching the broader public is intended to demystify AI and digital space for all, and will ensure children, youth, families, and educators are able to navigate the digital space safely, confidently and responsibly. This campaign is not just about these 16 days – it should be sustained every day where government, civil society, private sector, and youth all play a crucial role.” The Ombudsperson for children stated that: “I am delighted to be associated with the production of a booklet and videos featuring DIVA, the result of a meaningful collaboration between the UNRCO, three Ministries, and my office. The mandate of the Office of the Ombudsperson for Children is to protect, promote, and defend the wellbeing and welfare of the child, and the ‘Best Interests of the Child’ principle lies at the very core of these multimedia resources. I am confident that these tools will sensitise against cyber threats involving children and contribute to safeguarding their rights and safety in cyberspace.” The Honorable Minister of Information Technology Communication and Innovation stressed that: “Today, we reaffirm our duty to protect every woman, girl and child in the digital age. As a nation, we cannot ignore the rising harms online, facts that compel us to act with urgency and responsibility. Our collaboration with the United Nations reflects our commitment to ethical, safe and empowering technology. Through DIVA, our national AI avatar and new educational tools, we are giving families and young people the knowledge, confidence and protection they deserve to thrive securely online.” The Honorable Minister of Education and Human Resource highlighted that: “International Human Rights must be compatible and thoroughly upheld in the digital realm”. The Honorable Minister of Gender and Family Welfare stated: “I am pleased to be associated with the Digital Safety Campaign for Children and Teens. As Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, one of my foremost responsibilities is to ensure the protection, well-being, and security of our children — the future custodians of our Republic. A key priority for the Republic of Mauritius is to enhance the digital resilience of our children and teenagers — enabling them to recognise online risks, respond safely, and seek help whenever necessary. Digital resilience is not merely about protection; it is about empowering our young people to navigate the digital world with knowledge, responsibility, and confidence. I wish to underscore that this effort requires strong collaboration. Our Ministries, the Mauritius Police Force, schools, parents, community organisations, and youth networks all have a critical role to play in fostering safe digital habits. This can be achieved through open dialogue at home, school-based digital literacy programmes, and youth-focused campaigns across the Republic. With a united and proactive approach, I am confident that we can strengthen the protection of our children and teenagers and ensure that they enjoy the benefits of the digital age in a safe and secure environment.” On this Human Rights Day, the United Nations and the Government reaffirm their commitment to ensuring that children and youth can navigate online spaces safely, confidently and free from digital violence. Media Contacts: MOITCI Ms Reshma Nathoo – Communications Advisor (reshnat15@gmail.com) UNRCO Mr Rajesh Parboteeah – Partnerships and Development Finance (rajesh.parboteeah@un.org)

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Press Release

24 October 2025

United Nations Marks 80th Anniversary with “80 Trees for UN80” Initiative in La Vallée de Ferney

Organised under the global theme “Better Together: 80 Years and More for Peace, Development and Human Rights," the event highlighted how local partnerships are advancing global goals — from climate resilience to biodiversity protection and sustainable livelihoods. 80 Trees for UN 80: A Living Legacy As part of the commemoration, participants planted 80 native and climate-resilient trees, symbolising the United Nations’ eight decades of service to people and planet. The trees, all endemic species grown in the Ferney nursery, will serve as a living legacy of the UN’s environmental commitment in Mauritius. Guests discovered how the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation and the La Vallée de Ferney Conservation Trust have rehabilitated nearly nine hectares of degraded forest, restored native biodiversity and created local jobs in sustainable land management with the support of the UNDP – Small Grants Programme. Partnership and Purpose The ceremony featured addresses by Honourable Hambyrajen Narsinghen, Junior Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade; H.E. Ms. Lisa Simrique Singh, UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles, Dr. Vikash Tatayah, Conservation Director of MWF and Mr. Alexandre Hervé, Manager of the La Vallée de Ferney Conservation Trust, in the presence of Mr. Luke Maurel, Head of Business Unit at Ciel Properties.. Honourable Hambyrajen Narsinghen stated “We are living in challenging times, but as the United Nations has shown, even crises can generate opportunities. Through its enduring principles and actions — including support for Mauritius’ case on the Chagos issue before the International Court of Justice — the UN continues to help nations find balance, justice, and hope for the next 80 years and beyond.” In her remarks, Ms. Lisa Simrique Singh underlined the importance of partnership and local action, stating: “As the United Nations turns 80, we are celebrating by taking action. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to restore ecosystems, build resilience, and ensure that every community — and every person — is part of a sustainable future. The story of La Vallée de Ferney shows that when we act together, local solutions can deliver global impact.” Dr. Vikash Tatayah highlighted: “Thanks to our partnership with the United Nations and the support of the CIEL Group, we’ve been able to protect iconic species like the echo parakeet and pink pigeon, expand Mauritius’ first protected area, and extend conservation work to Rodrigues — proof that without partnership, we simply cannot succeed.” Better Together for the Future The event formed part of a series of activities marking the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations, celebrating Mauritius’s long-standing partnership with the UN and its leadership in promoting multilateralism, and sustainable development. Contact: Ms. Vara P. Mootoocurpen – varaluxmee.permall@un.org

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Press Release

09 October 2025

Government and the United Nations hold First Joint Steering Committee Meeting for Cooperation Framework in Mauritius

The JSC, guides the strategic implementation of the Cooperation Framework and comprises senior representatives from both the Government and UN. It provides strategic direction, alignment with national priorities and effective coordination to foster whole of society integrated thematic approaches. With less than five years left to achieve the 2030 Agenda and SDGs, the Cooperation Framework sets out the collective response of the 24 United Nations agencies in partnership with government and national stakeholders to accelerate economic transformation, inclusion and climate resilience and sustainable future of the people. With its five year implementation horizon of 2024-2028 the focus is on: (a) fostering inclusive human development ensuring inclusive access to services for people, especially youth, women, persons with disabilities, and migrants; (b) addressing Mauritius' structural vulnerabilities and boosting economic transformation for an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient economy that ensures stable and decent opportunities for all; and (c) building resilience of natural ecosystems to climate change, bio-diversity losses and pollution. The JSC was co-chaired by the Honourable Dhananjay Ramful, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and International Trade, and Her Excellency Lisa Singh, UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles. The JSC discussed UNSDCF joint workplans and priorities along with a Partnership and Resource Mobilisation Strategy that will guide the action under its three priority areas. “The UNSDCF is not just a cooperation framework—it is our shared responsibility to deliver real, measurable progress for the people of Mauritius. The success of the UNSDCF in Mauritius will demonstrate how effective coordination and shared accountability can translate global commitments into tangible national impact. Together, let us ensure that this partnership delivers inclusive, resilient, and sustainable prosperity for all Mauritians.”, said Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and International Trade. The UN Resident Coordinator underscored that the unique challenges faced by Small Island Developing States like Mauritius require tailored engagement from the UN to boost their climate exposure and economic resilience agenda that also leaves no-one behind. Some key priorities in this regard are leveraging global and regional expertise and resources of the UN to help accelerate the national priorities of the country in key areas of science technology and innovation, climate financing, blue, green, circular economy, gender, youth and combatting drugs while ensuring strong human capital development to ensure future competitiveness of the country. The meeting, held at the Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel, is a testimony to the ongoing fruitful partnership between the Government of Mauritius and the UN, underlining their shared commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive future for all. Media Contacts: UN RCO – Mithulina Chatterjee | + (230) 5258 8455 | mithulina.chatterjee@un.org

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Press Release

01 July 2025

UN Country Team for Mauritius & Seychelles Annual Retreat 2025

01 July 2025 – A three-day United Nations Country Team (UNCT) retreat for Mauritius and Seychelles commenced today with the participation of 25 UN agencies, funds and programmes. It is organised under the theme “Repositioning UNCT for Accelerating Economic and Climate Resilience for All in Mauritius and Seychelles.” The gathering brings together government leaders, civil society organizations, regional organisations, international development banks and private sector partners to reflect, recalibrate and recommit to deepened collaboration for transformative results and progress on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.During the Opening Ceremony at the Savoy Hotel, Beau Vallon in Seychelles, Ms. Lisa Singh, UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles, congratulated the clear vision of Mauritius and Seychelles toward an economic and climate-resilient future and emphasized:“The current global context, more than ever, calls for expanded partnership between the UN, government and all stakeholders to achieve transformative and lasting results that contribute to improve people's lives and build their resilience.”As Seychelles embarks on the second year of its National Development Strategy (2024–2028) and Mauritius initiates its new Government Programme (2025–2029), “A Bridge to the Future,” the timing of the Retreat is therefore significant in allowing the UN to strengthen strategic alignment with government priorities. Joining remotely, Hon. Mr. Dhananjay Ramful, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, reaffirmed the value of multilateralism, stating:
“Mauritius will continue to champion the principles of multilateralism and international solidarity. We look forward to even deeper partnership with the UN System in delivering transformative change for our people, our region and our planet.”In his keynote address, Vice President and Minister for Finance, National Planning & Trade of Seychelles, Hon. Mr. Ahmed Afif, underscored the nation’s pioneering leadership and the evolving role of the UNCT in supporting national resilience:
“We pioneered the world's first blue bond to sustainably finance our marine sector. We implemented a debt for nature swap to reduce national debt while protecting our oceans. We are actively expanding renewable energy, sustainable tourism and digital public services. These are not isolated achievements, they are part of a national strategy to build long term resilience. To sustain and scale this progress, we need the UNCT to evolve with us—to become more responsive, more integrated and catalytic in its support.”Reinforcing this call for responsive and inclusive action, Hon. Mr. Flavien Joubert, Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Climate Change of Seychelles, highlighted: “No country can work in isolation as the threats that we face are collective and common to all, including climate change, global economic instability, pandemics, and cyber threats. We should commit ourselves to ensuring that no one – no children, women nor men, persons with disabilities or any at-risk groups in our communities, and abroad – is left behind.”The three-day event, which will cover issues of climate resilience, innovative finance, economic diversification, equitable growth, and regional integration, will facilitate the implementation of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Small Island Developing States (ABAS).

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