LLDC3 Adopts Awaza Political Declaration, Advancing Social and Economic Priorities

8 August 2025 – Awaza: The Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3) took place from 5 - 8 August in Awaza, Turkmenistan. The Conference convened under the theme “Driving Progress Through Partnerships” to explore avenues to unlock the potential of landlocked developing countries through innovative solutions, strategic partnerships, and increased investment.

The Conference hosted Heads of State, senior UN Officials, development partners, and private sector leaders to address the unique challenges LLDCs face, such as high trade costs, infrastructure gaps, and climate vulnerabilities.

A key outcome of the Conference was the endorsement of the Awaza Programme of Action and adoption of the Awaza Political Declaration, committing to the full implementation of the Programme of Action. This framework focuses on five priority areas:

• Structural transformation and innovation
• Trade, trade facilitation and regional integration
• Transit, transport and connectivity
• Enhancing climate resilience
• Means of implementation

While these commitments primarily address economic and infrastructure challenges, they also advance key social development priorities.

In particular, the Programme of Action commits to:

• Inclusive, equitable, and affordable digital connectivity: Expanding ICT infrastructure, bridging the digital divide (including the gender digital divide), and strengthening digital skills.
• Human capital development: Investing in inclusive, quality education and skills training, including STEM, to empower youth, women, and vulnerable groups.
• Gender equality and women’s empowerment: Removing legal, social, and economic barriers, and ensuring equal access to resources and opportunities.
• Innovation and partnerships: Leveraging science, technology, and innovation to foster sustainable growth and social inclusion, supported by multi-stakeholder collaboration.

While the Programme of Action outlines the formal commitments of LLDC3, other topics also featured prominently in the Conference’s dialogues. In particular, artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies were discussed during round-table sessions, with delegates noting that, if properly governed, they can expand access to education, improve disaster forecasting, and support digital trade, while also cautioning against the risks of exacerbating inequalities without robust ethical and regulatory frameworks.

The Conference also underscored key social development priorities — from inclusive education and skills training for youth and vulnerable groups, to bridging digital divides and advancing gender equality — that are vital in shaping development strategies unique to landlocked developing countries. As the second Social Summit approaches, maintaining a strong focus on these themes will be essential to ensuring that economic progress goes hand in hand with social inclusion and equity.

Find the Awaza Political Declaration and Programme of Action here.