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Voluntary National Reviews 2025

Federated States of Micronesia

Second Voluntary National Review of the SDGs

Main Messages

 

Navigating Our Future: Balancing Traditional Values and Sustainable Development 

The Federated States of Micronesia presents its second Voluntary National Review as a reaffirmation of our deep-rooted commitment to the 2030 Agenda and to a development pathway defined by our traditional knowledge, cultural identity, and unwavering community spirit. Grounded in the wisdom of our ancestors and guided by our modern aspirations, FSM continues to navigate a rapidly evolving global and regional environment with resilience, purpose, and vision. Our national journey is shaped by the FSM Strategic Development Plan (2024–2043), which lays out a unified, resilient, and prosperous FSM, delineated in nine thematic areas and aligned with the SDGs.

Our focus on people-centered development is central to this journey, particularly in health & well-being and gender equality & social inclusion. Our experiences throughout the pandemic reaffirmed the importance of resilient local health systems, access to care in remote areas, and a holistic approach to wellness that includes mental, physical, and social health. At the same time, we celebrate new milestones in gender equality, as more women step into leadership roles and contribute to shaping the nation’s future.

FSM’s economic landscape continues to evolve. The path to sustainable and inclusive growth demands that we reduce dependency, broaden opportunity, and place greater value on local entrepreneurship, youth innovation, and women’s economic participation. We aspire to shift from a model rooted in external assistance to one driven by economic diversification leading to self-reliance. Priorities include investing in human capital, expanding infrastructure, and fostering inclusive platforms to support integration of FSM into the global market.

As a big ocean state, FSM’s natural resources are both a source of pride and a critical foundation for development. The ocean is central to our identity and future, and we are committed to protecting our marine ecosystems through expanded conservation zones, sustainable fisheries, and the integration of customary marine stewardship. However, the worsening impacts of climate change threaten not only our biodiversity but also our food security, cultural heritage, and economic stability. Our efforts are focused on resilience, intergenerational equity, and maintaining FSM’s global leadership in sustainable ocean governance.

The changing geopolitical landscape in the Pacific presents challenges and opportunities for the FSM. As global interest in the region grows, so do the demands on our governance systems, diplomacy, and sovereignty. While new partnerships may open doors to more significant investment and influence, FSM must navigate with unity, transparency, and strategic foresight. Our ability to shape and assert our national development priorities depends on strengthening internal coordination, investing in national capacities, and pursuing relationships aligned with our values, identity, and long-term vision. In this context, the pursuit of equitable access to resources, technology, and climate financing becomes even more urgent.

As we reflect on our progress and look to the future, FSM is determined to steer its course—one defined by community ownership, traditional leadership, and a firm commitment to leaving no one behind . Our next phase will emphasize deeper integration of cultural governance into public policy, expanding localized services, and greater investment in data systems and institutional capacity. We will continue to advocate for partnerships that respect our sovereignty and pursue development that is both inclusive and locally driven.

Through this Voluntary National Review, FSM sends a clear message: our nation is not merely adapting to change—we are shaping it. With tradition as our compass and sustainability as our destination, we remain committed to building a future that honors our heritage, empowers our people, and upholds our rightful place as stewards of the Pacific.

Documents

Letter362.03 KB