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10th multi-stakeholder forum on science, technology and innovation for the sustainable development goals

Updated: 5 days ago


10th multi-stakeholder forum on science, technology and innovation for the sustainable development goals
10th multi-stakeholder forum on science, technology and innovation for the sustainable development goals | Photo: Kamala Bright

In May 2025, the United Nations Headquarters in New York hosted a pivotal event: the 10th Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals (STI Forum). Held on 7–8 May, the Forum was convened by the President of ECOSOC, His Excellency Mr. Bob Rae, and co-chaired by H.E. Mr. Omar Hilale, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Morocco to the United Nations, and H.E. Ms. Elina Kalkku, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Finland to the United Nations

Under the theme “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, and evidence-based, science and technology solutions and innovations for the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs for leaving no one behind,” this landmark event will underscore the vital role of innovation in achieving the United Nations 2030 Agenda. Particular attention will be given to SDG 3, SDG 5, SDG 8, SDG 14, and SDG 17, reflecting a comprehensive focus on health, gender equality, economic growth, ocean conservation, and global partnership.


Accelerating innovation to meet global goals


The STI Forum 2025 comes at a critical juncture. According to the UN's 2024 SDG Progress Report, only 12% of the Sustainable Development Goals are currently on track for achievement by 2030. This urgent situation highlights the need for scalable, science-based solutions capable of addressing complex, interrelated global challenges.Scientific innovation and technological advancement are recognised as indispensable drivers for sustainable development, offering new pathways to reduce poverty, enhance health outcomes, promote equality, and foster environmental stewardship.


A platform for real-world solutions and collaboration


Building on the momentum of previous editions, the 2025 STI Forum will feature a robust programme of side events, workshops, and high-level discussions. These sessions will showcase concrete success stories where innovation has directly advanced the SDGs.Past forums have illuminated powerful examples:


  • The Solar Sister initiative has helped over 7,000 women entrepreneurs distribute clean energy solutions across rural Africa, addressing both SDG 5 and SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy).

  • The development of blue carbon projects has proven vital for coastal ecosystem restoration, directly supporting SDG 14 (Life Below Water).


Future-facing projects are equally promising. Technologies such as AI-driven health diagnostics, gender-inclusive financial platforms, and oceanic monitoring satellites are expected to play a critical role in achieving greater sustainability and resilience by 2030 and beyond.


Spotlight on key goals: Health, equality, economy, oceans, and partnership


The STI Forum’s focus on SDG 3, SDG 5, SDG 8, SDG 14, and SDG 17 reflects strategic priorities essential for a sustainable global society.


  • Health and well-being (SDG 3) remain foundational; the WHO projects a potential shortage of 10 million health workers by 2030 if no action is taken.

  • Gender equality (SDG 5) is not only a moral imperative but an economic one: McKinsey estimates that advancing gender parity could add $12 trillion to global GDP by 2025.

  • Economic growth and decent work (SDG 8) require innovation in green technologies and inclusive employment models.

  • Ocean conservation (SDG 14) is critical, with more than 8 million tonnes of plastic entering marine environments each year.

  • Global partnerships (SDG 17) are the backbone of all success, ensuring that knowledge, resources, and innovation are shared equitably.


The Global Society movement stresses that no single nation, sector, or institution can deliver sustainable development alone. The STI Forum embodies this collaborative spirit by gathering governments, private sector leaders, civil society representatives, academia, and innovators from across the world.This multi-stakeholder approach enables the sharing of best practices, the forging of new partnerships, and the mobilisation of investment towards evidence-based, scalable solutions.


The collaboration encouraged through initiatives like the STI Forum demonstrates the potential of collective action to advance the Sustainable Development Goals. Whether through investment in sustainable technologies, the promotion of inclusive innovation ecosystems, or the strengthening of international scientific cooperation, it is clear that working together remains the surest path towards a resilient, just, and sustainable future.


Advancing together towards 2030 and beyond


As the world approaches the critical 2030 milestone, events like the STI Forum 2025 remind us that ambition, collaboration, and innovation must guide the global response to sustainability challenges.The focus on science, technology, and innovation is not merely technical—it is a call to action to build a better, fairer, and more inclusive world. Continued engagement and investment are essential to ensure that no one is left behind on the journey to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.


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