Localizing the SDGs: UNRISD at the UN Summer Academy

In an innovative new partnership, UNRISD this summer shared its research results with 120 participants and speakers from over 50 countries at the UN Summer Academy hosted by the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) Knowledge Centre for Sustainable Development in Bonn, Germany. Senior Research Coordinator Ilcheong Yi participated in a plenary panel discussion and moderated an “AppLab”, in both cases sharing with participants insights on how social and solidarity economy can facilitate the implementation of the SDGs at the local level.

Ilcheong particularly drew on new UNRISD research that is building the evidence base and enriching our understanding of SSE as a means of implementation for the SDGs with a strong focus on Seoul, Republic of Korea. The city has seen rapid development of proactive policies for the social economy (SE) and dramatic growth in the number of SE organizations and enterprises.

Participants at the 2017 Summer Academy, which focused on Localizing the 2030 Agenda, came from a wide variety of backgrounds including UN entities from across the globe, governments, municipalities, civil society organizations, research institutes and universities. By participating in the Academy they contribute to the aim of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development which has pledged to leave no one behind and bring all sectors of society together to achieve the SDGs.

The AppLabs, a particularly innovative part of the school, took the form of interactive workshops of 10-15 participants. In the labs people were able to learn a new tool, acquire a new skill, or discuss a concept related to localizing the 2030 Agenda in a way that is not possible in a plenary lecture.

Photo courtesy of United Nations System Staff College