At the 2023 Leader Summit, business leaders from around the world will meet to review their contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and explore ways to accelerate progress in achieving the 2030 Agenda.

As we approach the midway point of the 2030 Agenda implementation, it has become increasingly evident that the world is not on track due to converging crises. Climate change, a global pandemic, economic inequality, corruption, and conflicts have led to transformative disruptions on a global scale. But amidst these challenges, there is a unique opportunity for business leaders to play a vital role in addressing these issues and driving progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The United Nations’ 2030 Agenda, presents a comprehensive action plan to tackle critical global issues. Consisting of 17 SDGs and 169 targets, it covers areas from poverty and health to education, climate change, and gender equality. The main objective is to achieve sustainable development, promoting economic growth, social inclusion, environmental protection, and poverty eradication by 2030. To achieve these goals, the agenda emphasises cooperation and partnerships between governments, businesses, civil society, and individuals on a global scale.

The 2023 UN Global Compact Leaders Summit, taking place during the UN General Assembly High-Level Week alongside the SDG Summit 2023, serves as a significant gathering of business leaders, UN officials, government representatives, SDG stakeholders, and civil society professionals worldwide. The primary purpose is to comprehensively review the private sector's contribution to SDG progress. The Summit will delve into various essential topics, including the role of business leadership during crises, the significance of adopting a principles-based approach, global trends, and the vital tools and partnerships required for fully achieving the 2030 Agenda.

The day-long event, to be held at The Nest Climate Campus in New York on 19 September, aims to inspire and challenge organisations to take action, encouraging them to set measurable, credible, and ambitious targets aligned with specific calls to action in five key areas:

1. Gender equality

2. Climate action

3. Living wage

4. Water resilience

5. Finance & investment.

By focusing on these areas systematically, the private sector can leverage its unique strengths and capabilities to drive progress across all 17 SDGs.


Presentations include:

• The Time is NOW To Accelerate Action on the SDGs.
• Halfway to 2023: Looking Back. Looking Forward.
• Raising the Bar on Leadership amidst Crises.
• Accelerating a Just Transition to Net-Zero Emissions Globally.
• Embracing Systematic Changes in Corporate Finance for the Agenda 2030.
• Making Living Wage a Reality.
• Towards nature-positive business: Take action on the climate-biodiversity nexus.
• Moving Forward Faster to Scale Positive Impact in 100 Basins.
• Equal Pay 2023: Insights from the Global South.
• Moving Business from Commitment to Action on Human Rights and Labour Rights.
• SDG Innovation: Disrupting Business as Usual.
• Uniting Leaders for Business Integrity.
• Moving Forward Faster – Now!

The UN Global Compact Leaders Summit serves as a crucial platform for businesses to collaborate with the United Nations, governments, and civil society. Through such partnerships, it is hoped they can navigate the challenges posed by converging crises and accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs by 2030. By collectively embracing this opportunity and taking decisive actions, businesses can contribute significantly to shaping a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

For more information, visit the UN Global Compact Leaders Summit 2023 website.

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IMAGE: Used under licence from shutterstock.com

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A participant in the UN Global Compact, CourtHeath Consulting seeks to raise awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals and the principles of the Global Compact with business and government organisations in Victoria.

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