In September 22-23 2024, world leaders will gather in New York for the United Nations’ Summit of the Future, an event intended to revive a multilateral system built for a different era.

The Summit of the Future is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to enhance cooperation on critical challenges, address gaps in global governance and rebuild trust. It will reaffirm existing commitments, including to the Sustainable Development Goals and the United Nations Charter, and move towards a reinvigorated multilateral system better positioned to impact people’s lives positively. https://www.stimson.org/2024/can-the-pact-for-the-future-tackle-rising-human-insecurity/

The Summit of the Future is a high-level event that brings world leaders together to forge a new international consensus on how we deliver a better present and safeguard the future.  The Summit scheduled for September is expected to address a wide range of global challenges and strengthen multilateral cooperation. Here are some key aspects to expect from the summit:

1. Pact for the Future: The summit will result in a “Pact for the Future,” a comprehensive agreement aimed at addressing global challenges and enhancing international cooperation. This pact will focus on sustainable development, peace and security, digital cooperation, and governance. (https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2024/07/un-summit-future-sdgs/)
2. Strengthening Multilateralism: The summit aims to accelerate multilateralism by addressing gaps in global governance and reaffirming commitments to international cooperation. This includes renewing the UN Charter and enhancing the effectiveness of international institutions.
3. Addressing Global Challenges: the summit will focus on pressing global issues such as climate change, technological advancements, and geopolitical tensions. It will seek solutions to new challenges while reinforcing existing commitments like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN’s Summit of the Future Could Be a Turning Point for Global Diplomacy. (https://unfoundation.org/blog/post/how-the-uns-summit-of-the-future-could-be-a-turning-point-for-global-diplomacy/).
4. Youth and Future Generations: A significant emphasis will be placed on involving youth and considering the needs of future generations. The summit will explore ways to engage young people in decision-making processes and ensure that their voices are heard in shaping global policies
5. Innovation and Digital Cooperation: the summit will address the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies, aiming to develop tools to accelerate progress toward the SDG’s and enhance digital cooperation globally.

The Summit of the Future is expected to be a pivotal event in redefining global cooperation and addressing the complexities of today’s interconnected world. It is a chance to get back on track.

As part of a monumental effort to reset global cooperation, the United Nations will host hundreds of world leaders, policymakers, experts, and advocates. The goal will be to rethink what multilateralism means in a rapidly changing world. It will also  build upon the 2023 SDG Summit, to “turbo-charge” the 2030 Agenda.

As Vincentians, engaging with the Summit of the Future presents an opportunity to align our mission with global efforts to address pressing social and environmental issues. The Summit will address issues such as inequality, a new agenda for peace and security, youth and future generations, poverty, and human rights, which are central to the Vincentian mission. By participating in discussions and promoting the Summit’s outcomes, we can advocate for policies that support marginalized communities and address social injustices, Sustainable Development Initiatives, Empowering Youth and Future Generations.

By aligning with the Summit’s themes and outcomes, Vincentians can strengthen their commitment to serving those in need and contribute to a more just and sustainable world.

Sister Michelle Loisel, DC
NGO Representative at the UN
Company of the Daughters of Charity