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Interactive Panel Discussion on Integrated Approaches that leave no one behind in the Implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
Wednesday, 13 July 2016
6:15 PM - 7:30 PM
Conference Room 6

Side Event

World leaders have called for the transformation of our world, and described the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as “a plan of action for people, planet and prosperity” in the twenty-first century. They have pledged that “no one will be left behind.” In their declaration, Transforming Our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, world leaders also committed to “achieving sustainable development in its three dimensions – economic, social and environmental – in a balanced and integrated manner."

Implementing an integrated approach of diverse environmental, social and economic objectives is complex. However, the complexity, magnitude and the interconnectedness of environmental change does not mean that decision-makers are faced with the stark choice of “doing everything at once in the name of integrated approaches or doing nothing in the face of complexity.” To the contrary, an integrated approach provides for strategic and innovative decisions to be taken and implemented together to meet the objectives of sustainable development.

Integration provides the basis for “economic models that benefit people and the environment; for environmental solutions that contribute to progress; for social approaches that add to economic dynamism and allow for the preservation and sustainable use of the environmental commons; and for reinforcing human rights, equality, and sustainability.” Those furthest behind – families, communities, societies, countries and regions – require particular attention to pull them up from the “tyranny of poverty and want.”

The main purpose of the interactive panel is to provide an opportunity for governments, institutions, stakeholders and partners to exchange experiences and discuss practical examples and approaches for integration of the environmental, social and economic dimensions of the 2030 Agenda. The session will focus on integrated approaches that will lead to transformation ensuring that no one is left behind. Experiences from countries and regions will be shared to highlight that successful implementation of the Agenda will require full commitment and participation of the diverse players involved recognizing that a cross-sectoral, multi-stakeholder, multi-level and interdisciplinary approach is crucial.

Co-sponsors: Government of Jordan, the European Commission, UNCCD and UNEP. Together with the UN Regional Commissions.

Moderated by: Elliott Harris, UN ASG, Director, NY Office, UNEP
United Nations