By Matik Kueth
The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has warned that the global “engine of development is sputtering,” calling for immediate and transformative action to address mounting challenges.
Speaking at the opening of the 4th Financing for Development Conference (FFD4) in Sevilla, Spain, on Monday, Guterres highlighted the $4 trillion annual shortfall that is preventing developing countries from reaching the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
He appealed for a “sweeping course correction” to close the financing gap and restore trust in the multilateral system.
“We are here in Sevilla to change course. To repair and rev up the engine of development to accelerate investment at the scale and speed required,” Guterres stated.
Against the backdrop of rising inequalities, intensifying climate impacts, and ongoing global conflicts, Guterres made it clear that the crisis is not due to a lack of resources, but rather a deficit of political will and solidarity.
“This conference is not about charity. It’s about restoring justice and facilitating the ability of all people to live in dignity,” he said.
One of the central outcomes of the gathering is the Sevilla Commitment, a landmark agreement adopted on Monday to support low-income nations, mobilize private capital, and safeguard social investments.
Notably, the United States chose not to participate in the pact after withdrawing from negotiations earlier this month.
Guterres underscored the human toll of the financing gap, stressing the urgent need for action.
“Two-thirds of the SDG targets are off-track. This isn’t just a financing crisis. It’s a crisis of people, of families going hungry, children missing vaccines, and girls kept out of classrooms,” he warned.
The UN chief also acknowledged the fragility of the current multilateral order, reflecting concerns voiced by many leaders about growing distrust between nations and global institutions.
“Sevilla is not an endpoint. It is a launch pad for a new era of implementation, accountability, and solidarity,” Guterres said.
The four-day summit, attended by more than 150 nations and 50 heads of state, is being hailed as a once-in-a-decade opportunity to change the global financial system and achieve justice, inclusion, and sustainability.
Key topics on the agenda include debt restructuring, equitable climate financing, and reshaping the role of international financial institutions.
As the summit continues this week under record-breaking June temperatures, Guterres’ address has emerged as a rallying point, pushing the world not only to support development but also to recommit to a shared goal of dignity and equity for everyone.