Where we work
Arab States
The Arab States region is home to a dynamic financial sector with more than $4.5 trillion in capital and a predominantly young population. However, much of this wealth remains underutilized, and access to financing for green and SDG-aligned investments is limited – particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises that have potential to drive innovation and generate employment.
The Green Finance Platform, spearheaded by UNDP, was established to address these challenges by mobilizing capital toward green and inclusive growth. The Platform focuses on unlocking finance for green small enterprises by tackling barriers such as weak enabling environments, limited financial instruments, and high perceived risks.
At the heart of the Green Finance Platform is a strong commitment to impact. Every transaction is guided by rigorous measurement to ensure meaningful contributions to the SDGs. To enhance the attractiveness of green investments, the Platform also offers de-risking tools –including portfolio guarantees and blended finance solutions – designed to catalyze private-sector engagement and scale up sustainable investments across the region.
Building Resilience to Climate Risks in Jordan
The agriculture sector is a major employer of women in Jordan. For most women in rural agricultural communities, the idea of insurance remains foreign. However, climate change is increasing the risks faced by farmers in Jordan – one of the world’s most water-scarce countries.
UNDP has been working with these farmers to increase their understanding of climate change and financial protection tools such as insurance. The Inclusive Insurance and Risk Financing Project is working with the Government to strengthen the role of the national Agricultural Risk Management Fund and the implementation of Jordan’s new Takaful Law – making Takaful solutions more widely accessible. (Takaful is a form of insurance in accordance with Islamic Law.)
By working at both the institutional and community levels, UNDP is closing the financial protection gap for hundreds of thousands of people working in Jordan’s agriculture sector.
