On 24 September 2024, at the invitation of the Journalists and Writers Foundation in New York City, four speaker from European National Interreligious Bodies from Religions for Peace (RfP) Europe presented their research, methodologies, activities, and achievements related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As part of the 1st SDGs Roundtable Discussion “Interfaith contributions to SDGs achievements” held on the margins of #UNGA79, the conference aimed to address critical issues pertaining to sustainable peace and development, providing a platform to explore challenges and propose inclusive solutions to social, economic, and environmental issues. The European National Interreligious Bodies from Religions for Peace Europe was a co-partner of the organizing of the conference.

Prof. Joan Hernandez-Serret, Secretary General of Religions for Peace Europe and RfP Spain, who presented research on SDG achievements and analyzed the trends of engagement among religious communities in Europe. Prof. Genti Kruja, President of Religions for Peace European Interreligious Bodies representing Religions for Peace Albania highlighted the interfaith harmony between the country’s five religions and emphasised their collaboration with youth and women’s departments. Prof. Serret and Prof. Kruja also talked both about common Erasmus Plus project of universities from 5 different countries titled “Facing global challenges: Environmental and Peace Education in Interreligious Cooperation for Teacher Training”.

Dr. Marcel Israel from RfP Bulgaria reported on the active involvement of academics in interfaith work despite resistance from some established faiths. He also showcased the far-reaching impact of the Annual Interfaith Conference in Bulgaria. Cinde Lee, Chair of the Religions for Peace UK elaborated on the global priorities of the Religions for Peace movement and their alignment with the SDGs. She outlined the UK’s approach – “catalyse, convene, and collaborate” – and extended an invitation to the conference attendees to engage with the PeaceBuilder’s Network via the RfP UK website.

Each presentation was followed by lively and engaging discussions, allowing both presenters and delegates to exchange ideas and explore solutions for advancing the SDGs, which are vital elements in fostering sustainable peace.

This side-event aimed to create a platform for the international delegations of civil society members, journalists, academics, experts, and human rights advocates participating at the SDGs Conference 2024 to share their expert opinions, exchange ideas on various development challenges and offer inclusive solutions to the contemporary challenges on social, economic, and environmental issues.

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