Section outline

  • The Borrowers’ Platform has been recently launched by UNCTAD, an initiative that aims to strengthen the capacity of developing countries to navigate an increasingly complex sovereign debt landscape. By improving access to debt-related information, analytical tools, and practical resources, the Platform empowers borrowing countries to make informed financing decisions, enhance debt transparency, and engage more effectively in discussions with creditors and the international community.

    At a time of elevated debt vulnerabilities, tighter global financial conditions, and growing uncertainty, many developing countries face significant challenges in securing financing that supports sustainable development, let alone paying debt in a sustainable manner. Access to timely, reliable, and borrower-focused information is essential to mitigate information asymmetries and enable countries to better articulate their priorities and interests in debt-related negotiations and policy discussions.

    This short course will introduce delegates to the Borrowers’ Platform, its objectives, key tools, and practical applications. It will demonstrate how the Platform can support policymakers and Geneva-based delegates by providing evidence, knowledge, and tools that strengthen their participation in international discussions on debt and finance for development. By fostering greater transparency and enhancing countries' analytical and negotiating capacity, the Platform contributes to more balanced engagement between borrowers and creditors and supports sustainable and development-oriented financing solutions. The course is relevant to SDG 17, particularly in strengthening the means of implementation and promoting international cooperation for sustainable development.

    At the end of this course, delegates will have gained knowledge of:

    • The challenges facing developing countries in today's sovereign debt landscape and the importance of reducing information asymmetries.
    • The objectives, structure, and main functionalities of the Borrowers’ Platform.
    • How the Platform can be used to strengthen debt transparency, support evidence-based policymaking, and improve access to borrower-relevant information.
    • How the Platform empowers borrowing countries to engage more effectively in debt-related dialogue and negotiations with creditors and other stakeholders.
    • The role of the Platform in promoting sustainable financing and strengthening the voice of developing countries in the global financial architecture.