#Japan #Osaka #Keio University #SDGs Japan #Beyond SDGs

The Inaugural Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference

As we approach the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), time is running out. In response to shifting global conversations, Japan is establishing the Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference, aiming to foster a dialogue among diverse stakeholders to create actionable proposals. Set in motion during the inaugural kick-off forum on September 4, 2025, hosted at the Umeda Sky Building in Osaka, this initiative seeks to address the pressing issues related to the future of the SDGs.

Ten years following the adoption of the SDGs in 2015, various initiatives have shown tangible results, yet significant challenges remain. Using these mixed outcomes as the foundation, the Beyond SDGs movement seeks to leverage past lessons to propel future actions. The kick-off forum is designed to bring together government officials, corporate leaders, civil society members, and youth representatives to discuss specific actions towards achieving these vital goals.

Event Overview

The formal commencement of the first session will take place on September 4, 2025, from 9:30 to 11:30 AM, with the venue set at the Space 36R, Umeda Sky Building, Osaka. The event is organized by the Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference Board, in collaboration with Keio University’s Keio STAR and the Sustainable Development Solutions Networks (SDSN) Japan. The Osaka Prefectural Government and the Public-Private Collaboration Platform for Regional Revitalization focusing on SDGs lend their support for this endeavor.

Program Details

The program will be emceed by Ayako Sakurada, an acclaimed eco-announcer, ensuring a smooth flow of discussions:

• - Opening Remarks: Toshiyoshi Nishizaki, Deputy Director-General for International Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• - Program Explanation: Kenji Kanie, Professor at Keio University and Chairman of Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference Board.

Panel Discussion 1: 'Concrete Actions Towards Beyond SDGs'

• - Participants include:

- Toshiyoshi Nishizaki (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
- Tomoko Hasegawa (Japan Business Federation)
- Atsuko Miwa (SDGs Citizens’ Society Network)
- Rin Yamaguchi (Japan Youth Platform for Sustainable Society)

• - Facilitated by Masahiro Kawatei (Secretary-General of Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference).

Panel Discussion 2: 'Essential Themes for Beyond SDGs'

• - Participants will include:

- Yoshiki Ishikawa (Well-being for Planet Earth)
- Izumi Kubota (National Institute for Environmental Studies)
- Takuo Dome (Osaka University).

• - Facilitated by Kenji Kanie.

• - Closing Summary and Future Outlook: Discussion involving Kenji Kanie and Masahiro Kawatei along with Ayako Sakurada and an interactive session with the audience.
• - Following the discussions, attendees will have an opportunity for networking, including exchanging business cards with featured speakers at the event's conclusion.

The Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference serves as a platform for collaboration aimed at contributing Japan’s voices and actions towards global sustainable goals that stretch beyond the current SDGs framework. By engaging various stakeholders—from government and businesses to civil experts and youth—this initiative reinforces a commitment to sustainability and innovation.

As we auspiciously launch this conference, the approach is primarily outlined and driven by the Board established in June 2025. The board consists of a diverse range of stakeholders, including governmental bodies, corporations, civil society organizations, youth generation representatives, and local governments. The advisory board is designed to incorporate insights from academic institutions to bolster discussions and proposals.

As the world grapples with the pressing deadline of 2030, the collaborative efforts and insights shared through this public-private conference hold potential for groundbreaking action towards achieving and surpassing the existing SDGs.

Contact Information
For inquiries about the Beyond SDGs Public-Private Conference, please reach out via email to [email protected].