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Delivering SDG Impact through Innovation & Partnerships:
A Swedish Perspective
By H.E. Alexandra Berg von Linde | Ambassador of Sweden to Pakistan
Our long-standing partnership with UNDP in Pakistan is built on trust, shared values, and the belief that progress is strongest when it is inclusive.
As one of UNDP’s largest core contributors globally, Sweden is proud to support the SDGs and the collective efforts to realize them in Pakistan. Our longstanding partnership with UNDP reflects our shared commitment to inclusive growth, democratic governance, and climate resilience. Our flexible funding allows UNDP to prioritize resources where the needs are greatest.
Pakistan faces a complex development landscape, including persistent poverty, vulnerability to climate shocks, gender inequality, and limited access to opportunities. Yet, within these challenges lie immense potential for progress—especially when relevant stakeholders work together in the spirit of innovation.
In 2024, UNDP’s achievements in Pakistan offer a glimpse of what is possible; thousands of youth trained in green skills, hundreds of thousands reached through voter education, and women entrepreneurs across Gilgit-Baltistan and Sindh, leading the way in climate-smart businesses. These efforts echo Sweden’s development priorities: advancing gender equality, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and building resilient communities.
One of the key ingredients for delivering SDG impact is innovation, not just in technology, but also in how we build and sustain partnerships. Sweden is proud to support initiatives that bring together governments, development actors, civil society, and the private sector to develop creative solutions that address complex challenges.
The role of business is particularly important. Swedish companies operating in Pakistan are deeply committed to sustainability, ethical conduct, and skills development. Their presence in sectors such as packaging, energy, information technology, transport, and manufacturing contributes not only to economic growth but also to job creation and the promotion of responsible business practices aligned with the SDGs. Sweden continues to encourage greater public-private dialogue to ensure that business becomes an active agent in building a fairer, greener, and more digital future.
Gender equality also remains at the core of Sweden’s development policy. Pakistan’s progress in 2024, reflected particularly in the support for women-led businesses and legal empowerment initiatives, is encouraging. Yet more needs to be done. Sweden is committed to continuing its support for programs that break structural barriers, promote women’s leadership, and create inclusive economic opportunities.
Another vital thread in this partnership is governance. Strong, independent, and transparent institutions are key to delivering on the SDGs. UNDP’s support to Pakistan in strengthening electoral systems, dispute resolution mechanisms, and justice sector reforms helps ensure that development is not only impactful but also equitable and accountable.
"Our long-standing partnership with UNDP in Pakistan is built on trust, shared values, and a belief that progress is strongest when it is inclusive," says H.E. Alexandra Berg von Linde, Ambassador of Sweden to Pakistan. "By working together, we can create opportunities that not only drive sustainable growth but also ensure that no one is left behind."
As the 2030 deadline approaches, business as usual is no longer enough. We need new coalitions, bold ideas, and shared responsibility. Sweden’s core and bilateral support to UNDP, totaling over SEK 1.8 billion ($170.35 million) in 2024, reflects our belief that multilateral partnerships remain essential to tackling global challenges. In Pakistan, this means continuing to support the communities most affected by climate change. It means championing human rights, especially for women and marginalized groups. And it means unlocking innovative solutions, whether through digital tools, green investments, or youth-led action.
Sweden remains a steadfast partner to Pakistan and UNDP. This partnership gives us the opportunity to support progress that is not only sustainable, but also shaped by and for the people of Pakistan.