Rebeca Grynspan at UNCTAD16 Ministerial Meeting of Least Developed Countries
21 October 2025 — Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), addressed the UNCTAD16 Ministerial Meeting of the Group of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in Geneva. Since 1971, the United Nations has recognized LDCs as countries facing deep structural challenges that hinder their development due to historical, economic, and geographical factors. Today, 44 LDCs remain highly vulnerable to global shocks, climate change, and tightening financial conditions. The meeting provided a platform for LDC ministers to unite around shared priorities and a common vision, culminating in the adoption of a ministerial declaration as part of the UNCTAD16 Outcome — reinforcing international support for resilience, sustainable growth, and progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.
