Shona Robison MSP is set to speak at a conference on the topic in Edinburgh. 

Deputy First Minister, Shona Robison MSP, will be giving the keynote address at a conference focussed on reigniting interest in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to achieve peace and prosperity for people and planet. 

The conference, organised by Scotland’s International Development Alliance (SIDA), takes place on September 27 at Dynamic Earth Edinburgh and online. 

It will take inspiration from people and communities across the world to renew a focus on the SDGs. 

Shona Robinson MSP said: “As we work to safeguard the future of Scotland and the planet, it is important that we restate our commitment to the international action needed to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs) by 2030.

“The Scottish Government supports that here at home through the integration of SDGs into the National Performance Framework, while our approach to trade, climate justice and humanitarian work promotes fairness and equality overseas. We have also committed to increase the International Development Fund to £15million over the course of this Parliament.

“Driven by a belief in the importance of global solidarity, we are determined to make sure Scotland plays a leading role in renewed efforts to achieve the SDGs.”

The SDGs were introduced in 2015 with a target date of 2030, and the halfway point is marked this week. SIDA represents members working in over 150 countries and across all 17 SDGs. 

Other speakers at the conference will be discussing how SDGs can be embedded in decision making; the role of AI and new technology in progressing the SDGs; and how we can inspire more public understanding and support.

Frances Guy, chief executive of Scotland’s International Development Alliance said: “The importance of the 2030 Agenda is clear to many – it is the closest we have come so far to an internationally agreed blueprint for sustainable development. At this halfway point to achieving the SDGs, we have no time to lose in implementing them at home, whilst simultaneously working with others to ensure that no one is left behind globally. Despite the unprecedented challenges of recent years, the commitment of our members to the SDGs is unwavering and we can take inspiration from their contributions which span the globe. We call on governments, local and national, to take the action necessary to meeting these vital targets by 2030.”

The Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF) will be launching a documentary at the conference about its Scottish Government funded Loss and Damage Project in Malawi. 

SCIAF is delivering an £800,000 programme in southern Malawi, funded by the Scottish Government to address loss and damage caused by the climate crisis.

Ben Wilson from SCIAF said: "Scotland's leadership on Loss & Damage is something people across the country can be proud of. This documentary shows why this support is so important and can change lives across the world for the better. 

“But to really continue leadership on climate, the Scottish Government must now get its own house in order, and deliver a Climate Change Plan this year that gets us on track to achieve our legally binding climate commitments."