Countries gathered in Geneva today to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the pioneering UNECE Strategy for Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). The event, held during the 20th meeting of the UNECE Steering Committee on ESD, brought together government representatives, educators, youth leaders and international partners to reflect on two decades of progress and chart a course for the future.
Since its adoption in 2005, the UNECE Strategy for ESD has served as a regional framework for integrating sustainable development into education systems across Europe, Central Asia, and North America. Translated in 30 languages, the Strategy has inspired national policies, fostered innovation in teaching and learning, and empowered generations of learners to become agents of change.
Thanks to the strategy, ESD has been integrated across formal education curricula of all levels in all the countries in the region, in a systemic and unified way. Many countries have also integrated ESD into non-formal education schemes, such as community-based programmes, eco-clubs, youth-led sustainable/environmental initiatives. Over the years, it has fostered the development of links between education systems and the private sector, to facilitate integration of students in the labor markets, through emphasis on youth entrepreneurship, green innovation and green skills. In 2023, a Youth Task Force was established as the advisory body to the Steering Committee on ESD on issues related to young people, giving guidance and strategic directions to the implementation of the Strategy.
In her opening statement, UNECE Executive Secretary Tatiana Molcean emphasized the Strategy's enduring relevance: "Over the past 20 years, the UNECE Strategy for ESD has helped embed sustainability into the heart of education systems. As we face complex global challenges, education remains our most powerful tool to build inclusive, resilient, and sustainable societies."
Mr. George Panteli, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth of the Republic of Cyprus, representing the Chairing Member State, highlighted that the 20th anniversary of the UNECE Strategy for ESD is not merely a moment for reflection, but a call to action. "This milestone is not about looking back - it's about taking stock and stepping forward with clarity and purpose," he stated.
Participants revisited the Strategy's origins and achievements, highlighting its transformative impact through national implementation reports and academic research.
A special segment titled "Member States' Voices" showcased video and written contributions from across the region, offering personal reflections and aspirations for the next phase of ESD. A forward-looking panel discussion brings together representatives from UN agencies, youth platforms, and civil society to explore how education can respond to emerging sustainability challenges, including digital transformation and climate resilience.
As the Strategy enters its third decade, UNECE reaffirms its commitment to supporting member States in delivering quality education that equips learners of all ages with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to shape a sustainable future.
