#Japan #Tokyo #Sophia University #Gender Mainstreaming #UN Weeks

25th Sophia University UN Weeks

Sophia University, located in Chiyoda City, Tokyo, is hosting its 25th UN Weeks from June 8 to June 26. This annual event aims to foster discussions around global challenges including peacebuilding, gender issues, human rights, and international cooperation through a series of engaging symposiums and workshops.

One of the highlights of this year's program is a symposium focused on "Gender Mainstreaming" scheduled for June 19. This event aims to deepen discussions held at the United Nations and explores how these discussions can be applied to enhance local revitalization in Japan, proposing new directions for social transformation through individual agency and partnerships.

Additionally, there will be a symposium on June 9 that addresses post-conflict peacebuilding, featuring esteemed members from a Japanese NGO, the Japan Association for Refugees (JAR), who will discuss challenges and future directions for peacebuilding initiatives.

On June 23, a notable event will be led by the Vice President of JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency), who will present on current challenges and support in peacebuilding.

Further enriching the event is a symposium on June 12 that questions the universal value of human rights with a focus on the publication of a new book. The discussion will touch upon the historical context of human rights and their significance in today's world.

On June 15, participants can attend the symposium titled "Youth on Social Change," where young ambassadors and volunteers from international organizations will share their experiences and insights into their career pathways in the field.

The event lineup also includes a workshop on June 17 dedicated to international cooperation careers, featuring seasoned professionals from international organizations and NGOs who will share tips and insights on building a global career.

All attendees are invited to join these discussions. High school students and others interested in global issues are encouraged to participate, and they can check the application details at the end of this article.

Each event of the UN Weeks aims to inspire discussions on crucial global themes under the guiding principle of reflecting on our future through the lens of the United Nations activities.

Event Details

• - Program Schedule

- June 9 (Tue) 19:05–21:05 In-Person/Online
Symposium on "Challenges and Opportunities for NGOs in Peacebuilding: Including Cooperation with UN Agencies". With ongoing cuts to UN funding by the Trump administration, how are NGOs adapting their post-conflict peacebuilding activities?

- June 12 (Fri) 18:00–20:00 In-Person/Online
Book launch symposium on human rights addressing the impact of Christian thought on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This symposium will invite prominent figures to deconstruct the significance of human rights in modern contexts.

- June 15 (Mon) 18:00–19:30 In-Person/Online
Symposium "Youth Speaking on Social Change" where young professionals from international organizations will discuss their experiences and aspirations.

- June 17 (Wed) 18:00–19:30 In-Person
Career workshop focused on opportunities within international organizations and NGOs, encouraging attendee participation.

- June 19 (Fri) 18:00–19:30 In-Person/Online
Discussion on "Transforming Humanity's Future through Gender Mainstreaming: The Call for New Leadership" with an expert panel discussing applications of gender discussions in revitalizing localities in Japan.

- June 23 (Tue) 19:05–21:05 In-Person/Online
A symposium on the endeavors of JICA in peacebuilding, including challenges and strategies for cooperation with international agencies.

Participation Details

• - Eligibility: Open to all (registration required, free of charge)
• - In-Person Venue: International Conference Hall, 17th Floor, Building 2, Yotsuya Campus, Sophia University
• - Registration: Interested participants can register through the Sophia University event application site here.

Contact

For inquiries, please reach the Sophia University UN Weeks Secretariat at [email protected].

We look forward to your participation in these vital discussions!