SDG Conference

Accreditation at Berliner Union-Film, Oberlandstraße 26-35, 12099 Berlin 

For online participation please use the following link to get an accreditation. 

Opening of the Conference

• Virtual Opening Statement by António Guterres - United Nations Secretary-General

"COVID-19 is not only a wake-up call, it is a dress rehearsal for the world of challenges to come – climate change above all."

• Opening Keynote Speech by Dr. Ingolf Dietrich - Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)
• Opening Keynote Speech "Love and (Public) Service" by Lisa Witter - Apolitical (Studio 2 + live stream in Studio 1 & Online) 

The Opening Keynote Speeches will be available in Berlin at BUFA and Online.

SDG 2 - Workshop | Opening Panel: Hunger and Conflict – Starvation as a Weapon of Warfare (in Berlin at BUFA & via live-stream at YouTube)

Moderation: 

• Alexandre Skander Galand - Centre for Fundamental Rights, Hertie School 

Speakers:

• Andrew Gilmour - Berghof Foundation 
• Wayne Jordash - Global Rights Compliance 
• Lucile Grosjean - Action Against Hunger France 
• Florian Laudi - German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO) 

Abstract: States have long refuted the various links between hunger and armed conflicts; often reducing famine to the development field or as an unavoidable collateral damage of war.  In 2018, the UN Security Council finally recognized ‘the need to break the vicious cycle between armed conflict and food insecurity’. What measures should then be taken in the development, humanitarian, and peace sectors to ensure that hunger does not lead to conflicts, that conflicts do not result in famine and that famine does not lead to further escalations? Does international humanitarian law provide a clear framework to address hunger in armed conflict? Is starvation as a means of warfare unequivocally a war crime? 

SDG 13 - Panel: Our Health, our Climate, our Future: Leaving No One behind in Times of Crisis (Studio 2 + live-stream)

Moderation: 

• Dr. Anne Ellersiek - Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies (IASS)

Speakers: 

• Dr. Maylin Meincke - German Climate and Health Alliance
• Dr. Joseph Ege Adive Seriki - Save the Children Somalia 
• Wadzanai Motsi-Khatai - Center for Intersectional Justice 

Abstract: Even before Covid-19, the world was off track in achieving the SDGs. The pandemic came at a time when the climate crisis continued to unfold, with its various effects on human health becoming increasingly clear. Just as extreme weather events such as droughts and floods disproportionately affect people and regions, the Covid-19 pandemic has revealed and exacerbated inequalities across the globe. Children are among the most affected. This panel discussion will shed light on the interactions between climate change and health, while focusing on the need to address intersecting inequalities to accelerate progress towards the SDGs. A particular focus will be on measures to reach the furthest behind first.

Breakout-Session 1 (Online): Water - Reason for Conflict or a Catalyst for Peace? 

Moderation: 

• Louise van Schaik - Clingendael Institute 

Speakers: 

• Andrew Gilmour - Berghof Foundation
• Willow Rook - Action Against Hunger Yemen
• Wayne Jordash - Global Rights Compliance 

Abstract: States have the obligation to respect, protect, and fulfil the human right to water. Water scarcity and competing interests over the available water resources will often lead to increasing tensions, which are influenced by other inter-related factors, such as climate crisis or population growth. The struggle for dwindling resources can be life-threatening and with dire impacts on food security and public health. Water - A driver for conflict or a promoter for peace?

Zoom link Meeting-ID: 973 8409 0685 Code: 307954

Breakout-Session 2 (Online): Early Warning & Conflict - a good Match? 

Moderation: 

• Manuel Sánchez-Montero - Action Against Hunger Spain

Speakers: 

• Dr. Stefan Voigt - German Aerospace Center
• Bernhard Kowatsch - UN World Food Programme 
• Zakari Saley Bana - Action Against Hunger West and Central Africa 
• Matthias Amling - German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO) 

Abstract: Food insecurity can be a trigger for conflict and vice versa. Having early warning systems in place to alert funding streams, governments and aid actors to signal the need for early action is key to avoid famine. However, the interplay of information on food insecurity and deepening of conflict is lacking behind within such mechanisms compared to a wide range of production indicators covering the supply side. How can innovative approaches and data analysis support timely humanitarian action to prevent and alleviate suffering in respect to hunger in conflict?

Zoom link Meeting-ID: 988 1857 8569 Code: 358266

Breakout-Session 3 (Online): Human Security in Sahel beyond Securitisation 

​​​Moderation: 

• Andrea Steinke – Center for Humanitarian Action  

Speakers:

• Tidiane Fall – Action Against Hunger Niger 
• Anna Schmauder - Clingendael Institute
• Benoit Collin - European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) 

Abstract: The Sahel region is experiencing increasing levels of food insecurity, a displacement crisis, jihadist violence and civil unrest, most recently culminating in the Malian coup d’état. The breakout session will illustrate challenges to realizing SDG 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions) and safeguarding human security in the Sahel, especially amidst the COVID-19 pandemic as well as address potential trade-offs between a variety of actors involved in principled humanitarian assistance, long-term development goals, peace and stabilization initiatives. 

Zoom link Meeting-ID: 989 0330 2906 Code: 389741

Breakout-Session 4 (Offline) : Storytelling - Making Hunger visible (Studio 1)

Moderation: 

• Jana Sepehr - Global Citizen 

Speakers: 

• Valentin Thurn - Director 

Abstract: Drivers of hunger are complex and pave the way on how we portray food crisis and starvation in the public eye. How can we overcome established narratives and images and create empowering and dignifying storytelling? Zero Hunger (SDG 2) remains a global goal for the next ten years. Already achieved progress is slowed by a combination of the pandemic, economic depression, climate crisis and conflict. In this session, methods of storytelling and associated power relations will be examined. Let’s have a fruitful discussion on ways forward to shape a collective consciousness on modern visual language on hunger.

Closing Panel in Berlin at BUFA & via live-stream at YouTube

The closing panel aims to wrap-up the Workshop on the specific SDG and highlights key discussions, learnings and outlooks on how to reach the 2030 agenda in the coming ten years.

Moderation: 

• Alexandre Skander Galand - Center for Fundamental Rights, Hertie School 

Speakers: 

• Andrew Gilmour - Berghof Foundation 
• Andrea Steinke - Center for Humanitarian Action
• Jana Sepehr - Global Citizen 
• Manuel Sánchez-Montero - Action Against Hunger Spain

Networking, Coffee and Cake 

Panel: The Global Compacts on Refugees & Migration and SDGs: Frameworks for Accountability or Bureaucratic Hyperbole? (Studio 2 + live-stream)

Moderation: 

• Chris Melzer - UNHCR Germany 

Speakers: 

• Brooke Lauten - Norwegian Refugee Council Geneva 
• David Starke - SOS Mediterranee Germany 
• Markus Rudolf - Bonn International Center for Conversion 
• German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO) (tbc) 

Abstract: For the first time, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development contains recommendations related to displacement. The SDGs form the basis for “Durable Solutions”, which in turn play a central role in the Global Compacts. This panel aims to discuss how the Global Compacts and the SDGs are linked to or even complement each other, and where they diverge; where there may be discrepancies between the aspirations of the documents and their implementation; and whether these frameworks provide accountability to the international commitment to achieve a better and sustainable future, leaving no one behind.

Interactive Talk with Belina Raffy - Exploring the SDGs with Humor and Compassion (Studio 1) 

Abstract: It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the urgency, complexity, and seriousness of the 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goals.  Our thinking, how we collaborate, and the ways we communicate about the goals are all affected by this.  In our brief, interactive session we explore what happens when we take a highly compassionate and humorous view of the SDGs.  We experience how loving comedy can illuminate what is absurd and deeply inspiring about making the world better, in ways that leave us/our audiences open to reflection and change.

Networking and lunch 

SDG 13 - Workshop | Opening Panel: Climate Justice - A Civil Rights Movement Arising (in Berlin at BUFA & via live-stream at YouTube) 

Moderation: 

• Juan Auz - Center for Fundamental Rights, Hertie School   

Speakers: 

• Kira Vinke - Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research 
• Khaled Sulaiman - Journalist & Trainer
• Camila Bustos - Advocate & Yale Law Student
• Konstantin Engelbrecht - Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) 

Abstract: This panel aims to discuss the justice dimensions of the climate crisis, ranging from the responsibilities of industrial societies to the tensions between the developmental needs of non-industrial societies and their evolving climate responsibilities. Drawing from global narratives, panellists will shed light on how the crisis affects the lives of vulnerable communities and critically appraise the existent local, national and international advocacy and policy responses. Moreover, this panel will underscore the limits of international cooperation in addressing justice concerns.  

Virtual Reality Exhibition  (Studio 3) 

Studio 3, with its unique greenscreen is the perfect place for the premiere of the virtual reality exhibition "The Future Is Now", which presents six international projects related to environmental protection. 

SDG 2 - Panel: Averting Hunger Pandemics – Now and in the Future (Studio 2 + live-stream)

Moderation: 

• Ralf Südhoff - Center for Humanitarian Action

Speakers: 

• Jennifer Ankrom Khan - Action Against Hunger Pakistan
• Adan Yusuf Mahdi - Save the children Somalia/Somaliland
• Claudia Ah Poe - United Nations World Food Programme

Abstract: Covid-19 exposes inequalities in access to resources and basic services, underscores human rights challenges and adds on humanitarian and development needs. Even before, the world was not on track to achieve SDG 2 “Zero Hunger” by 2030. We have to avert that the current pandemic also becomes a hunger pandemic.  The pandemic entails short- and long-term consequences and fosters the debate around improved coordination between humanitarian and development approaches (Double Nexus). How can we, as an Intl. Community, plan, invest and respond more flexibly to external shocks now and in the future? 

Breakout-Session 1 (Online): Power Imbalance in Response to Climate Crisis 

Moderation: 

• Juan Auz - Centre for Fundamental Rights, Hertie School 

Speakers: 

• Camila Bustos - Advocate & Yale Law Student
• Khaled Sulaiman - Journalist & Trainer
• Konstantin Engelbrecht - Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) 

Abstract: This session will propel some reflections on the origins and perpetuation of power asymmetries between the Global South and the Global North in the context of the climate crisis. The legacies of colonialism, systemic oppression of racialized communities and ever-expansive global inequality are not only the basic elements of North-South dynamics but the fundamental factors behind how the climate crisis exacerbates historical vulnerabilities. In this connection, discussants will examine how these intersectional constraints shape local, national and international responses to the climate crisis. 

Zoom link Meeting-ID: 921 4132 2490 Code: 679430

Breakout-Session 2 (Online): Displaced by Climate Change: How to Secure the Human Rights of Affected Communities 

Moderation: 

• Nina Birkeland - Norwegian Refugee Council 

Speakers: 

• Fawad Durrani - Greenpeace Germany
• Dr. Kira Vinke - Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research 
• Dr. Koko Warner - UN Framework Convention on Climate Change
• Prof. Dr. Walter Kälin - Norwegian Refugee Council  

Abstract: Protecting the rights of people who are displaced or at risk of displacement becomes more difficult in the context of the adverse effects of climate change. While there has been increasing international attention to this aspect in the last few years, international law and policies are currently unable to fully meet the protection needs of displaced people in the context of climate change and particularly when they cross international borders. Protection therefore requires concerted action from states, international organisations, civil society, NGOs and local communities. This session will seek to explore how the human rights of displacement affected people can be protected in the context of the adverse effects of climate change. 

Zoom link Meeting-ID: 984 2825 7798 Code: 907402

Breakout-Session 3 (Online): Empowering Youth - Ways out of Crisis  

Moderation: 

• Anna Wasiak - Save the Children Germany

Speakers: 

• Maxwell Mumba - Global Youth Leader for Nutrition 
• Elena Keil - Greenpeace Germany, Youth Platform ‘youpaN’ 
• Dr. Heike Kuhn - Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)

Abstract: While the voices of the young generation are central to the discussions around the SDGs, it are theirs that are too often neglected and missing in respective policy-making. This breakout session gives the floor to young activists who are passionate about making the world a better place and protecting the planet for future generations. This exchange shall foster dialogue between future generations and current policymakers to enhance an inclusive debate on the Agenda 2030.  

Zoom link  Meeting-ID: 951 6915 5723 Code: 904715

Breakout-Session 4 (Offline): Tony's Talk - The Story of an Unusual Chocolate Bar (Studio 1)

Speaker: 

• Nicole Riffert - Tony’s Chocolonely

Abstract: Tony’s Chocolonely isn’t your average chocolate company, but a chocolate company with a huge mission: to end illegal child labour and modern slavery in the cocoa industry. With delicious chocolate they set the example and show that chocolate can be made without exploitation and in a more responsible way; not only in taste, but especially in the way they handle an open and transparent value chain. In this session, we are looking forward to share some tasty chocolate with you and tell you more about why Tony’s Chocolonely is an impact company that sells chocolate and not the other way around.  

Closing Panel in Berlin at BUFA & via live-stream at YouTube

The closing panel aims to wrap-up the Workshop on the specific SDG and highlights key discussions, learnings and outlooks on how to reach the 2030 agenda in the coming ten years.

Moderation:

• Juan Auz - Center for Fundamental Rights, Hertie School 

Speakers: 

• Camila Bustos - Advocate & Yale Law Student 
• Kira Vinke - Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research
• Anna Wasiak - Save the Children Germany
• Konstantin Engelbrecht - Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) 

Virtual Reality Exhibition (Studio 3) 

Studio 3, with its unique greenscreen is the perfect place for the premiere of the virtual reality exhibition "The Future Is Now", which presents six international projects related to environmental protection. 

Networking, coffee and cake 

SDG 6 - Workshop | Opening Panel: The Blue Gold - Water: A Resource and Human Right (in Berlin at BUFA & via live-stream at YouTube)

Moderation: 

• Prof. Dr. Pierre Thielbörger - Center for Fundamental Rights, Hertie School

Speakers: 

• Gertrud Falk - For the Right to Food and Nutrition (FIAN Germany e.V.)
• Christian Wiebe - Viva Con Aqua  
• Hannah Neumeyer - WASH United 
• Dirk Winkler - German Development Cooperation (GIZ) Jordan 

Abstract: In fall 2020, the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation celebrate their 10 years anniversary at the United Nations. However, implementation of these rights is lacking behind. Looking at SDG 6, almost a third of the global population doesn’t use safely managed drinking water services and that more than half of it doesn’t have access to safely managed sanitation services. The situation is even worse for vulnerable groups such as women, children, refugees and migrants and people with disabilities or chronic diseases. This panel will discuss challenges and chances for the future realization of the human rights to water and sanitation. 

Interactive Lecture by War Photographer Jan Grarup

The lecture with photographer Jan Grarup will be introduced by German photographer Bert Loewenherz. It will be followed by Q&A from Bert Loewenherz and the audience.

SDG 2 - Panel: A Feminist Transformation in the Food Systems (in Berlin at BUFA & via live-stream at YouTube) 

Moderation: 

• Cornelia Richter - Action Against Hunger Germany 

Speakers: 

• Naima Imam Chowdhury - Action Against Hunger Canada
• Valentin Thurn - Director 
• Mwandwe Chileshe - Global Citizen 
• Martin Hoppe - Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development 

Abstract: The COVID-19 Pandemic occurred at a time when the global food system has already been facing major challenges due to climate change, regional and border conflicts and situation by war and tense political conditions. Evidence shows that globally, women and children are facing enormous challenges to reach Food and Nutrition Security. The current food system requires urgent transformation, where women and marginalized people occupy vital positions. To make it inclusive across all the diversities of people, the entire empowerment process needs to include a feminist system-intervention.

Breakout-Session 1 (Online): The Right to WaSH for Displaced and Marginalized People (Stream Studio 1)

Moderation:  

• Manfred Profazi - International Organisation for Migration Germany 

Speakers: 

• Janet Cherono - Norwegian Refugee Council Nigeria 
• Haakon Spriewald - Handicap International Germany 
• Ricardo Valenzuela - Fundación Halü Bienestar Humano
• Juliana Turjman - German Development Cooperation (GIZ) Jordan

Abstract: How can we better protect and promote the right to WaSH for vulnerable and marginalized groups? Inspired by the Nakuru Accord, this session aims to “promote failures”, i.e. be open about shortcomings in WaSH programming and ask the question “what should we stop doing?” Furthermore, the discussion will elaborate what measures humanitarian and development organisations could take to improve their WaSH programming and how donors and (local) governments can ensure that the right to WaSH for especially vulnerable groups (people with disabilities, indigenous, displaced and other marginalized groups) is respected. 

Zoom link  Meeting-ID: 968 9014 4196 Code: 323951

Breakout-Session 2 (Online): Building and Breaking Trust: Ebola and Covid-19 

Moderation: 

• Sonja Hövelmann - Centre for Humanitarian Action 

Speakers: 

• Rachael Cummings - Save the Children UK
• Eric Rheinstein - Action Against Hunger South Sudan
• Horeb Bulambo Shindano - Journalist and Film Maker 

Abstract: Why are humanitarian health interventions to contain infectious diseases such as COVID-19 and Ebola sometimes met with scepticism or resistance by the local population? Mistrust in governments and international aid workers as well as misinformation and conspiracies were identified as a reason for opposition. To rebuild trust, health workers engaged in community-driven responses and by strengthening the role of local actors. The session deals with reflections and key learnings from community engagement and a renewed focus on water and sanitation for all (SDG 6) in times of a global pandemic. 

Zoom link Meeting-ID: 948 6917 9252 Code: 416005

Closing Panel in Berlin at BUFA & via live-stream at YouTube

The closing panel aims to wrap-up the Workshop on the specific SDG and highlights key discussions, learnings and outlooks on how to reach the 2030 agenda in the coming ten years.

Moderation: 

• Prof. Dr. Pierre Thielbörger - Center for Fundamental Rights, Hertie School

Speakers: 

• Haakon Spriewald - Handicap International
• Sonja Hövelmann - Center for Humanitarian Action
• Dirk Winkler - German Development Cooperation (GIZ) Jordan 

Virtual Reality Exhibition (Studio 3)

Studio 3, with its unique greenscreen is the perfect place for the premiere of the virtual reality exhibition "The Future Is Now", which presents six international projects related to environmental protection. 

Networking, coffee and cake 

Young people are key to achieving the SDGs – let’s listen to them! 

We have asked our Global Youth Leaders for Nutrition: How do you imagine the world you want to live in in the future? What changes do you hope to see from decision-makers? What should they do to improve the situation of young people?  

We hope their voices will be heard.  

Closing Keynote Speech by Rebecca Freitag - Ambassador for the Rights of Future Generations 

Closing of Conference in Berlin at BUFA (Studio 2 + Live Stream in Studio 1) & via live-stream at YouTube

After a long day of discussions we are happily inviting you to have some chats and drinks at our guests meet guests area, so that we can all end this day in a physically but not socially distanced manner.

Film Screening "Selfish" (Studio 2) and Panel debate with Médecins Sans Frontières, Action Against Hunger, Norwegian Refugee Council & Save the Children - moderated by Centre for Humanitarian Action 

Get your tickets for the "offline" screening at BUFA  or use the following link to purchase tickets for a virtual screening.