In these early years, UNIDO profiles itself as the United Nations entity supporting structural transformation: the green revolution (agriculture) and economic self-sufficiency through industrialization. The work programme concentrates on launching industries in those countries where there were none to speak of and supporting fledgling ones in others. The Organization supports the establishment of agro-related as well as basic industries, including metallurgy, construction materials, chemicals, fertilizers, pharmaceuticals and pulp and paper, but also light, small-scale and export-oriented sectors.
Starting in 1967 (and continuing until 1997), the Organization deploys Senior Industrial Development Field Advisors (SIDFAs) and, later, UNIDO Country Directors (UCDs). SIDFAs/UCDs act as deputies to the resident coordinator, are responsible for the industrial sector of UNDP country programmes, and act as the senior advisers to local governments on industrial matters.
UNIDO becomes the UN organization responsible for industrial development in the Second United Nations Development Decade (1971–1980).
In the context of the UN General Assembly’s 1974 call for action to establish The New International Economic Order, UNIDO’s Lima Declaration in 1975 called for developing countries’ share of world industrial production to be raised from the prevailing 7% to twenty-five per cent share by the year 2000.
1975
The First Lima DeclarationFirst Conference of African Ministers of Industry
Second General Conference adopts Lima Declaration, Plan of Action on Industrial Development and Cooperation.
First biennial forum for African leaders and other stakeholders to review progress with Africa’s industrialization.