Kazakh Forum Highlights Central Asia's Progress on UN's 2030 Agenda
A forum in Kazakhstan, titled 'Central Asia's Sustainable Development Goals in a Changing Global Order', recently discussed the region's progress in achieving the UN's 2030 Agenda. Young listeners attended, indicating a desire for their involvement in shaping a sustainable future. The event, attended by German and international guests, emphasized German-Kazakh cooperation and the need for societal change.
The forum focused on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), set in 2015 to combat poverty, inequality, and climate change, while promoting health, education, and economic growth. Central Asia's vulnerability to climate change and interest in sustainable projects made it a key focus of international cooperation.
Water stress in Central and South Asia reached 69.5% in 2022, significantly above the global average. Speakers highlighted the need for improved water efficiency and usage. Prof. Dr. Wolrad Rommel, President of the German-Kazakh University in Almaty, stressed the importance of diverse perspectives in finding technical solutions.
The forum, opened by Kazakh Minister of Energy Erlan Akkenzhenov, underscored the region's climate change vulnerabilities and potential opportunities. Despite progress, challenges remain, including gender equality (SDG 5), where women's representation in management positions decreased from 14.1% to 11.6% between 2015 and 2023. The event emphasized the need for societal change, improved communication, education, and people's involvement in decision-making processes.
