Today Monday, July 8th marks the beginning of the 12th session of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Running from Monday, July 8th, through Friday, July 12th, and continuing with a high-level ministerial segment from July 15th to 18th, this pivotal event is set to address the pressing challenges and opportunities in pursuing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The theme for this year, “Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises: The effective delivery of sustainable, resilient and innovative solutions“, is right on the mark, emphasizing the urgent need for robust and cohesive actions. As the world grapples with multiple crises, from economic instability to environmental degradation, the HLPF is a crucial forum for fostering collaboration and innovation to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Diverse Participation
The HLPF 2024 brings together a wide array of participants, ensuring a holistic approach to sustainable development. The forum’s participants include:
- Government Representatives from UN member states, providing national perspectives and commitments.
- International Organizations that contribute their expertise and resources to global development efforts.
- Civil Society Organizations which amplify the voices and needs of communities worldwide.
- The Private Sector, bringing in innovation, investment, and practical solutions.
- Major Groups and Other Stakeholders, representing various societal sectors and interests, enriching the dialogue with diverse viewpoints.
Key Objectives of HLPF 2024
The forum aims to:
- Review Progress: Assess advancements towards achieving the SDGs, pinpointing areas of success and those requiring intensified efforts.
- Identify Challenges and Opportunities: Explore the barriers to implementation and the potential pathways for overcoming them.
- Share Best Practices and Innovations: Highlight successful initiatives and innovative approaches from around the world.
- Mobilize Political Commitment and Resources: Encourage governments and stakeholders to increase their commitment and investment in sustainable development.
Focused Goals for In-Depth Review
This year, HLPF will conduct an in-depth review of five specific SDGs:
- SDG 1: End poverty in all its forms everywhere.
- SDG 2: End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture.
- SDG 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
- SDG 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.
- SDG 17: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development.
Special Events and Highlights
In addition to the main sessions, HLPF 2024 features various side events, VNR (Voluntary National Review) Labs, special events, and exhibitions. These provide platforms for deeper engagement and showcase additional initiatives supporting the SDGs.
- Side Events: Focus on specific themes or regions, offering a closer look at particular aspects of sustainable development.
- VNR Labs: Countries will present their progress and share experiences in implementing the 2030 Agenda.
- Special Events and Exhibitions: Highlight cutting-edge solutions and collaborative efforts from various stakeholders.
Countries Presenting Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs)
Several countries have expressed their intention to present their VNRs at this year’s forum, including:
- Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belize, Brazil, Chad, Colombia, Congo (Republic of the), Costa Rica, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Georgia, Guinea, Honduras, Kenya, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Libya, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Namibia, Nepal, Oman, Palau, Peru, Samoa, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, South Africa, South Sudan, Spain, Syrian Arab Republic, Uganda, Vanuatu, Yemen, Zimbabwe.
These presentations will offer a unique opportunity to learn from diverse national experiences and strategies for advancing the 2030 Agenda.
Join the Dialogue
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with the future of sustainable development. Follow the HLPF 2024 live and participate in the discussions that will shape our collective path towards a sustainable and equitable world.
For more information and to join the live sessions, visit the official HLPF website.
Written by Olivier Noudjalbaye Dedingar, USA/ UN Correspondent.
