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.
1966
UNIDO established
17 November, UN General Assembly Resolution 2152 (XXI) establishes UNIDO.
1966
Ibrahim Helmi Abdel-RahmanIbrahim Helmi Abdel-Rahman (Egypt) becomes first Executive Director.
1968
Identifying challenges
Industrial Surveys and Studies programme focuses on problem areas in industrial development.
1969
Supporting light industryA Light Industries Section established to provide technical assistance for textiles and garment-making, leather-tanning, woodworking, food-processing, ceramics, brick-making, and other sectors.
1973
Assisting African countries
Encouraging economic and technical cooperation among developing countries.
1974
Protecting the environmentJoint programme with UNEP helps preserve the environment without slowing down the rate of industrial development.
1975
Abd-El Rahman Khane
New Executive Director, Abd-El Rahman Khane (Algeria) takes up office.
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.
