With the Cooperation Framework (2023-2027) entering its final phase, 2026 will be a pivotal year focused on consolidating results and driving last-mile delivery, with particular emphasis on accelerating results in poverty reduction, health, education, and economic resilience, while addressing persistent inequalities and supporting efforts toward fiscal stability. This will be pursued through intensified coordination, targeted interventions, strengthened partnerships, and a sharper focus on translating commitments into measurable outcomes for those furthest behind.
The UN Country Team will also prioritise a comprehensive evaluation of the Framework to assess performance, capture lessons, and safeguard development gains, while initiating preparations for the development of the next Cooperation Framework.
Against a backdrop of declining and uncertain financing, the UN will intensify efforts to optimise efficiency and impact through joint programming and integrated approaches. In line with the UN80 vision, this will entail strengthening system coherence, aligning agency contributions around shared priorities, reducing fragmentation, and reinforcing a “Delivering as One” approach in response to evolving national and global dynamics. Building on lessons learned over the years, the
UN country team will pursue innovative financing opportunities and strategic partnerships to sustain and scale results while adapting to tighter resource conditions.
In parallel, the UN will continue to strengthen national systems and institutions, enhance accountability, and support inclusive engagement with civil society to ensure that development efforts translate into sustainable and equitable outcomes for those furthest behind. At the
same time, support will be directed toward more efficient, nationally led responses to recurrent shocks, including operationalising key recommendations from recent assessments, strengthening coordination, and linking immediate response efforts to longer-term resilience within a constrained resource environment.
The electoral context will be a defining feature of the operating environment. In the lead-up to the general elections scheduled for 13 August 2026, the UN will scale up coordinated support to promote a peaceful, inclusive, and credible process. Efforts will focus on strengthening institutional preparedness, enhancing conflict prevention and early warning capacities, supporting information integrity, and engaging both state and non-state actors. The UN will continue to leverage its neutral convening role to foster dialogue, build trust, and contribute to conditions conducive to stability and democratic resilience.