Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries
The Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3) convened in Awaza, Turkmenistan in 2025. It gathered global leaders and experts to address challenges unique to 32 landlocked developing countries. These nations, home to over 600 million people, face barriers in trade, infrastructure, and economic growth due to their lack of sea access. The conference aims to encourage partnerships and accelerate sustainable development through the newly adopted Awaza Programme of Action (APoA) for 2024–2034.
Context and Significance
LLDCs represent 7% of the global population but contribute just over 1% to the world economy and trade. This disparity marks structural inequalities. The conference emphasised that these challenges are not insurmountable. Instead, it focused on solutions to unlock the potential of LLDCs through cooperation and innovation.
Awaza Programme of Action (APoA)
Adopted by the UN General Assembly in December 2024, APoA offers a strategic framework for the next decade. It targets key areas such as trade facilitation, infrastructure development, climate resilience, and financing. Major initiatives include regional agricultural research hubs to improve food security and a dedicated infrastructure investment finance facility to mobilise funds. The programme also supports the establishment of a high-level panel on freedom of transit and a WTO work programme tailored to LLDC needs.
Global Solidarity and Environmental Focus
The conference brought into light the importance of aligning economic growth with environmental sustainability. Turkmenistan’s President stressed that economic activities should support nature, not oppose it. This approach reflects a growing consensus that sustainable development must integrate ecological stewardship with economic planning.
Changing the Narrative on LLDCs
For decades, LLDCs have been defined by geographic disadvantages such as remoteness and lack of seaport access. The conference sought to shift this narrative by emphasising their resource wealth, resilience, and ambition. LLDCs are no longer to be seen as isolated or constrained but as active partners in the global economy with development potential.
Multistakeholder Engagement
LLDC3 included diverse forums engaging youth, women leaders, private sector representatives, and parliamentarians. These platforms aimed to amplify varied perspectives and encourage inclusive development. Special initiatives such as the LLDC Global Business Network and South-South Cooperation Ministerial Meeting were launched to strengthen collaboration and business opportunities.
Implementation
The conference marked a new decade of ambition for LLDCs. The Awaza Programme of Action will guide international and national efforts to overcome barriers and promote sustainable growth. The focus remains on partnerships, innovation, and resilience to transform LLDCs into thriving economies by 2034.
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