BE OPEN's Participation in the UNECE Regional Forum for Sustainable Development 2025 in Geneva

BE OPEN's Involvement at the UNECE Regional Forum for Sustainable Development 2025

On April 2nd and 3rd, 2025, BE OPEN participated in the UNECE Regional Forum for Sustainable Development, held at the United Nations offices in Geneva. The event aimed to promote sustainable, inclusive, science-based solutions aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The forum brought together representatives from UN member states, international organizations, civil society, academia, youth, and the private sector to discuss strategies for accelerating progress toward achieving these global goals. A significant theme of the forum was the urgent necessity for action, especially in light of the ongoing economic uncertainties and political changes impacting advancements in sustainable development.

The high-level political segment opened the forum, titled “Sustainable, Inclusive, Science and Evidence-Based Solutions for Accelerating SDG Progress.” Keynote speeches were delivered by notable figures, including Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations; Tatiana Molcean, Executive Secretary of UNECE; and Ivana Živković, UNDP Regional Director for Europe and CIS. Their speeches conveyed a strong message about the urgency required in mobilizing efforts toward the sustainable development agenda.

Despite existing efforts, the UNECE region faces significant challenges, as highlighted in a recent UNECE report. According to the report, only 17% of the 125 measurable SDG targets are expected to be met by 2030, with 84 goals requiring accelerated progress and 20 needing a reversal of current trends. The need for renewed commitment from all stakeholders is imperative to effect substantial change.

For BE OPEN, the forum's theme resonated deeply. The organization is currently running an international student competition titled “Designing Futures 2050,” focused on empowering young people to develop innovative solutions to address sustainability challenges. Elena Baturina, founder of BE OPEN, emphasized, “Our sustainability program shares similar objectives. It aims to raise awareness among students preparing for their careers about the importance of the SDGs and the urgent need for action.”

The initiative intends to engage students in updating and adapting the action plan for the SDGs in response to current realities. It aims not only to inform but also to inspire today's youth to actively contribute to the Sustained Action Plan for achieving sustainability goals. “We want our program to empower younger generations to approach the 2050 Agenda with knowledge, skills, responsibility, and passion,” added Baturina.

BE OPEN is dedicated to recognizing and supporting young innovators who can help transform inadequate systems and create better conditions for a fair and environmentally sustainable world. Through competitions and initiatives like this, BE OPEN hopes to cultivate a generation that prioritizes sustainability and is proactive in effecting change in their communities.

This active participation in global discussions is vital not only for the organization but also for the future of sustainable practices worldwide, demonstrating a collective commitment to achieving the SDGs and fostering a more sustainable future for all.