UN chief calls for strengthened support for small enterprises

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for strengthened support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), to help create jobs and eradicate poverty.

In his message on Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Day, Guterres said MSMEs are central to economies around the world, emphasizing their vital contributions in creating jobs, driving economic growth and empowering women, youth and marginalized communities.

This year’s theme focuses on the role of these enterprises in eradicating poverty and achieving the Sustainable Developing Goals, the UN chief said, adding that MSMEs have demonstrated remarkable resilience in times of crises.

Noting that many MSMEs continue to face limited access to finance, technology, markets and supply chains, Guterres said these enterprises require policies, support structures and investments that promote their growth and formalization — and in turn, help communities prosper, uplift the most vulnerable, and pave the way for more sustainable and just livelihoods.

“As we celebrate Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to strengthen our support to these entities, accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals and leave no one behind,” he said.
According to the United Nations, MSMEs account for 90 percent of businesses, 60-70 percent of employment and 50 percent of GDP worldwide.

In April 2017, the UN General Assembly designated June 27 as Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day, to raise awareness of the contributions of MSMEs to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.