Hanoi, 07/03/2025 – The 12th Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development (APFSD) took place from 25 to 28 February 2025 at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok, Thailand. The Forum brought together governments, international organizations, civil society, and development partners to assess the region’s progress and challenges in implementing the 2030 Agenda and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This year’s theme was “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs to ensure no one is left behind in Asia and the Pacific”. In alignment with the focus of the upcoming 2025 High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), discussions centered on the progress and challenges of five key SDGs:
- Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3): While maternal and child health have improved, inequalities in healthcare access remain a major challenge, particularly in remote areas.
- Gender Equality (SDG 5): Despite increasing policies to support women’s participation in governance and the workforce, gender-based violence and the wage gap remain critical issues.
- Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8): Informal employment and unsafe working conditions continue to hinder equitable economic growth.
- Life Below Water (SDG 14): Conservation efforts have expanded, yet marine pollution, overfishing, and climate change demand urgent and coordinated action.
- Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17): While international collaborations are growing, financing sustainable development and improving data monitoring systems remain key challenges.
AICS Hanoi actively participated in the discussions, highlighting Italy’s commitment to promoting sustainable and inclusive growth in the region. Italian initiatives in climate resilience, renewable energy, the circular economy, sustainable rural development, food security, and environmental statistical analysis were showcased through ongoing and upcoming programs in Vietnam and ASEAN countries. The Forum also provided opportunities for informal meetings with key regional partners, strengthening collaboration for future projects aligned with the EU Global Gateway strategic framework.
During the event, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) presented its 2025 report, “Delivering a Just Transition,” which underscores the need for a fair transition toward green and blue economies in the Asia-Pacific region. The report estimates that, while this transition could generate up to 180 million new jobs by 2050, it also poses risks of marginalizing informal workers, women, and vulnerable communities. To mitigate these risks, the report emphasizes the importance of expanding social protection, investing in vocational training, and strengthening gender and employment inclusion policies.
Since 2022, Italy has supported the ESCAP Multi-Donor Fund for Tsunamis and Natural Disaster Response, which was established following the devastating 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia. In line with SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the Fund aims to develop multi-risk early warning systems through regional cooperation in high-risk areas.
The outcomes of the 12th APFSD will contribute to discussions at the 2025 United Nations High-Level Political Forum, shaping global strategies to accelerate SDG implementation. AICS Hanoi remains committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to advance sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region, reinforcing the international community’s commitment to achieving the 2030 Agenda.