GYDA Representatives Participate in UN Joint Programme Forum on Advancing Local SDGs in Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand — August 20, 2025 — The Global Youth Development Alliance (GYDA) participated in the high-level forum “Advancing Local SDGs: Developing Insights into Investment and Action”, hosted at the United Nations Conference Centre (UNCC), Bangkok.

Organized by the UN Joint SDG Fund, UNDP, and UN-Habitat, the forum brought together government leaders, international agencies, academics, and community stakeholders to explore how local SDG implementation can be strengthened through data, financing, and inclusive partnerships.

Key Themes:

• Data and Monitoring — aligning local SDG indicators with global goals and enhancing data-driven governance.
• Financing Local SDGs — mobilizing public and private capital, including integrated financing frameworks and impact investment tools.
• Sustainability Innovations — showcasing community-based and municipal initiatives in waste management, social inclusion, and green infrastructure.

In the afternoon sessions, delegates engaged in deep-dive discussions on innovative approaches to local waste management, as well as pathways towards an inclusive and sustainable future.

GYDA’s Contribution: GYDA representatives joined the dialogue sessions, sharing youth perspectives on the role of grassroots innovation and impact-driven entrepreneurship in localizing the SDGs. Their participation highlighted the importance of empowering youth-led initiatives, fostering cross-border collaboration, and leveraging technology for sustainable community development.

The event concluded with a closing address stressing that local SDG action must be supported by coherent policies, accessible finance, and community participation, ensuring that no one is left behind. GYDA’s involvement demonstrates its ongoing commitment to amplifying youth voices in multilateral dialogue and contributing to actionable strategies that connect investment, innovation, and community impact.