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In a critical moment for global progress, the World Economic Forum (WEF) will host the Sustainable Development Impact Meetings 2024 (SDIM) from September 23 to 27 in New York City. Coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly, this year’s meetings will gather over 1,000 leaders from various sectors—including business, government, civil society, and academia—to reinvigorate momentum towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the 2030 deadline.

As the world grapples with increasing challenges such as climate change, social inequality, and economic instability, SDIM 2024 seeks to catalyze transformative actions through innovative partnerships. The meetings will serve as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and strategy development to address the pressing issues affecting sustainable development worldwide.

“With just six years left before the 2030 target, it is vital to renew our commitment to the SDGs and turn intentions into action,” stated Børge Brende, President of the World Economic Forum. “The Sustainable Development Impact Meetings will provide an essential opportunity for leaders to engage and create tangible outcomes for a sustainable future.”

Key Participants and Topics

Among the prominent leaders attending are eight heads of state and government, including Edi Rama of Albania, Alexander De Croo of Belgium, and Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament. The event will also feature over 90 top officials from international organizations, including Kristalina Georgieva from the International Monetary Fund and Achim Steiner from the United Nations Development Programme.

The diverse agenda includes sessions on critical themes such as Green Trade, Implementing COP Pledges, and Envisioning a Nature-Positive Future. More than 15 sessions will be livestreamed, allowing global audiences to engage with the discussions and insights shared by world leaders.

A Collaborative Approach to Sustainability

SDIM 2024 aims to enhance ongoing initiatives like the Edison Alliance and the Global Alliance for Women’s Health, fostering a collaborative approach to address the interconnected challenges of sustainability. The outcomes from these discussions will shape the Forum's future endeavors, including contributions to COP29 and the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025 in Davos.