Defacto Interview with Jaap van Hierden, UN Resident Coordinator in Mongolia

D. Jargalsaikhan, the Host: Good afternoon, and thank you for joining us today. 

You have been in Mongolia for about a year and a half now in what is still a relatively new position. Previously, coordination was handled by UNDP since 1961. The UN has long been an important partner for Mongolia, especially during difficult times. Now, with the Resident Coordinator system, you are the second person in this role. Looking back on your time here, what would you consider your most significant achievement, and what unexpected challenges have you faced? 

Jaap van Hierden, UNRC: Thank you. I’m not sure I should speak in terms of personal achievements, but it has certainly been a very interesting journey—learning about Mongolia’s history, culture, and its remarkable landscape. I’ve greatly appreciated meeting professionals across sectors and engaging with people on a wide range of issues. 

One notable collective achievement has been strengthening coordination between development partners and fostering more regular, monthly dialogues among international organizations, development agencies, NGOs, and diplomatic partners. These meetings focus on rotating key themes linked to the Sustainable Development Goals—such as people, peace, prosperity, and the planet—allowing us to better understand where progress needs to accelerate. 

Additionally, we meet quarterly with ambassadors. While we often interact at events, these structured discussions allow us to engage more deeply with Mongolia’s development challenges and opportunities. One of the core functions of the Resident Coordinator is to bring stakeholders together, and I believe this has been a meaningful step forward toward building a better future that leaves no one behind.  

As for challenges, I would not describe them as significant. I’ve been fortunate to work with a well-functioning UN country team and a supportive government. Mongolia is a hospitable country, and its long-term Vision 2050 aligns closely with UN priorities, particularly in addressing inequality and poverty. The challenge now is implementation—turning intent into action. 

D. Jargalsaikhan, the Host: Mongolia has experienced strong, statistically supported economic growth, largely driven by mining, yet poverty remains around one-third of the population. This creates a paradox. How is the UN addressing inequality? 

Jaap van Hierden, UNRC: Poverty persists when economic growth does not translate into sufficient decent employment opportunities and when the economy lacks diversification. Mongolia is now an upper-middle-income country, but this is largely due to mining revenues, which do not generate widespread employment. 

The solution lies in diversifying the economy. This is widely understood by the government, civil society, and the private sector—but understanding alone is not enough. Implementation is key. 

Diversification could include developing value-added industries, expanding sustainable tourism, and creating new economic sectors. However, tourism must be carefully managed. If not, natural sites could degrade over time. 

I often use the analogy of the United States, where national parks have been preserved or even improved over generations through strong management. Mongolia has similar potential, but it requires careful planning and protection through policy. 

During a recent visit to Great Gobu A, I observed noticeably lower levels of land degradation and desertification as we moved from surrounding rangelands into the protected area. This shows the positive impact of effective environmental management. 

D. Jargalsaikhan, the Host: Governance and corruption remain concerns. Public perception suggests increasing corruption, particularly in the judiciary. What is your perspective? 

Jaap van Hierden, UNRC: There is often a gap between policy intentions and implementation. Mongolia’s transition to democracy has been remarkable, but it is still a young democracy facing challenges. 

The perception of increasing corruption is concerning. Inequality and corruption can undermine social cohesion and public trust. Addressing this requires a multi-faceted approach. 

The UN supports governance reforms through agencies like UNDP, focusing on people-centered governance and institutional strengthening. One positive development has been increased diversity in parliament, including greater representation of women and persons with disabilities. 

However, more needs to be done. Anti-corruption institutions must be empowered, and judicial independence must be strengthened. Accountability is critical—without it, corruption persists. 

D. Jargalsaikhan, the Host: What role does digital governance play in improving transparency? 

Jaap van Hierden, UNRC: Digital tools, such as e-government systems, can improve efficiency and transparency, but they are only tools. Their effectiveness and substantive change depend on leadership and commitment. 

Ultimately, reducing corruption requires a shift in mindset—a commitment to public service and accountability. Technology can support this, but it cannot replace it. 

D. Jargalsaikhan, the Host: How does the “One UN” approach work? 

Jaap van Hierden, UNRC: The UN system is complex, consisting of many agencies with different mandates. The “One UN” approach aims to ensure coordination and coherence, preventing duplication and competition. 

The Resident Coordinator plays a central role in bringing these entities together as a unified system. Since the 2018 reform, this role has become independent, reporting directly to the Secretary-General, which strengthens neutrality and coordination. 

D. Jargalsaikhan, the Host: Mongolia is geographically and politically positioned between two major powers. How do you view this? 

Jaap van Hierden, UNRC: Mongolia’s position is unique. Its “third neighbor” policy allows it to maintain strong relations with global partners while balancing relations with its immediate neighbors. 

This neutrality creates opportunities. Mongolia can serve as a platform for dialogue, as seen with the Ulaanbaatar Dialogue. It is a place where international cooperation can thrive. 

D. Jargalsaikhan, the Host: Air pollution in Ulaanbaatar remains a major issue. What solutions do you see? 

Jaap van Hierden, UNRC: Air pollution is a serious but solvable problem. A large portion comes from ger districts, where most households rely on coal for heating. 

One proven solution is renewable energy systems combining solar power with heating technologies. These systems have already been successfully piloted and can significantly reduce pollution. 

The main barrier is financing. With sufficient investment, this issue could be addressed within a few years. 

D. Jargalsaikhan, the Host: How prepared is Mongolia for COP17? 

Jaap van Hierden, UNRC: I recently visited the COP17 site and was encouraged by the progress. Infrastructure development is underway, and preparations appear on track. 

While the process has been challenging, I am confident Mongolia will successfully host the event. Importantly, the investments are expected to serve as a lasting public legacy; the new infrastructure will continue to serve communities as an extension of the National Park after the conclusion of COP17. 

D. Jargalsaikhan, the Host: Finally, there is growing criticism of the UN’s effectiveness. How do you respond? 

Jaap van Hierden, UNRC: We take such criticism seriously. The UN has achieved a great deal over the past 80 years, but reform is necessary. 

Recent initiatives, such as the Pact for the Future, emphasize strengthening global cooperation, improving financing mechanisms, and addressing emerging challenges like AI governance, space governance, and climate change. There is also a new commitment to include young people in these conversations and decision-making processes. 

The UN remains a unique platform where 193 member states come together to address global issues. While not perfect, it is essential—and reform efforts are ongoing.