The United Nations Summit of the Future was held in New York, the US, from September 22 to 23, 2024. At the summit, an outcome document, Pact for the Future was adopted, which covers five fields including sustainable development and financing for development, international peace and security, science, technology, innovation and digital cooperation, youth and future generations, and transforming global governance. This document will serve as a guide for future global development.
During the summit, national industrial associations decoupled from administrative organs in Beijing and the city’s social organizations held thematic side events focusing on the key areas highlighted in the Pact for the Future. These events aim to promote China’s experience and share Beijing’s stories.
The China Association for NGO Cooperation (CANGO) and the Peaceland Foundation, in collaboration with relevant organizations, co-hosted two thematic side events titled “Inclusive Digital Futures” and “Empowering Youth: Green Impact for a Sustainable Future”. The events brought together over 70 representatives from global NGOs, government agencies, think tanks, enterprises, financial institutions, and youth leaders to discuss how to address global challenges such as digital inclusion, community resilience, and sustainable development through technological innovation and global collaboration.
At the “Inclusive Digital Futures” side event, Tencent presented its efforts to use digital technology and sustainable development capabilities to empower urban and rural communities, focusing on elderly health, youth employment, children’s health, and women’s development. A special “Call to Action” session was also arranged to promote the implementation of these initiatives. At the other side event, “Empowering Youth: Green Impact for a Sustainable Future”, Ant Group showcased its Ant Forest program, which encourages young people to engage in green practices. Additionally, the event announced the establishment of the “Youth Voice Press Corps”.
The Beijing International Exchange Association (BIEA) planned and organized an online thematic side event titled “Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda for Vulnerable Groups through Advancements in Emerging Technologies”. Stakeholders from international organizations, government agencies, and the private sector were invited to discuss ways to empower vulnerable groups and promote inclusive, equitable, and resilient sustainable development with emerging technologies, from the perspectives of global digital governance, international cooperation, education, and women’s development. At the event, the Zhongguancun Internet Education and Innovation Center explained with real-world cases how technological advancements and national policies aid the development of education in underserved regions. The side event was livestreamed on the official website of the United Nations Summit of the Future and received positive feedback.
In recent years, national industrial associations decoupled from administrative organs in Beijing and Beijing’s social organizations have recognized the importance of United Nations meetings as vital platforms for participating in global governance. They have actively utilized their consultative status and observer role to deeply engage in global governance, thereby contributing to building a community with a shared future for mankind.
(Edited based on information from CANGO, Peaceland Foundation, and BIEA)
