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Civil Society Champions SDG 16 for Climate Action at HLPF

Photo credit: @UNDP

At the recent High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development, Juliana Uribe Villegas, Executive Director of Movilizatorio and a partner of the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF), represented the voice of civil society in a pivotal discussion on the intersections between good governance and bold climate action. The event, organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and co-hosted by the Permanent Missions of Italy and Uruguay to the United Nations, brought together key figures from the UN, Member States, and civil society to explore how progress on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 16 and 13 — peace, justice, strong institutions, and climate action — can be mutually reinforcing. The forum built on , emphasizing the critical need for development actors to invest in robust governance systems to effectively combat climate challenges.

During the high-level panel, which featured opening remarks from UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner and insights from the Permanent Representatives of Italy and Uruguay, Ms. Uribe passionately advocated for greater citizen engagement in the global climate agenda. She highlighted the importance of empowering local communities and ensuring that their voices are heard in decision-making processes. Ms. Uribe urged governments to take bolder actions, emphasizing that tangible successes in climate action could inspire further change. She called for enhanced security for environmental champions and stressed the need for inclusive participation to strengthen the rule of law, human rights, and transparency in institutions, all of which are vital for achieving a sustainable and just future for all.

Movilizatorio’s work with UNDEF focuses on harnessing the power of youth to effectively shape public agendas, ensuring that their voices are integrated into local development processes in Columbia.