MSMEs: Key to an inclusive and sustainable recovery - Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day 2021

<div><p>The United Nations General Assembly designated 27 June as Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day (A/RES/71/279) in order to raise awareness of the contribution that small businesses make to sustainable, inclusive and resilient economic growth and, shared prosperity and decent work for all. Micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) account for 90% of businesses, 60-70% of employment, and 50% of GDP worldwide.</p> <p>On MSME Day 2021, almost 18 months after the onset of the COVID-19 crisis, most countries will still be grappling with the pandemic and its severe health and socio-economic impacts, including lockdowns and the need to support those who have lost their jobs and livelihoods. In many parts of the world, the pandemic recovery efforts are being presented as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to “rebuild better”, particularly by prioritizing sustainability, resilience and inclusiveness.&nbsp; This virtual MSME Day event will explore how to ensure MSMEs – the bedrock of our societies - are equipped to ensure a fast, equitable and sustainable post-COVID-19 recovery, empowered to drive the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and supported to spur innovation, creativity and decent work for all.</p></div>