A new era for ESS
Skepticism is understandable when it comes to transforming the world, changing dominant systems, or simply turning the tables so that those below can hope to change places. But, at the same time, we must be able to read the reality with a dose of optimism with our feet on the ground.
April 18, 2023 was a historic day at the UN. For the first time in history, a resolution was approved recognizing the importance and role of SSE in achieving the goals of sustainable development and promoting social justice.
What does this recognition entail?
This resolution raises the status of the ESS on the world stage, giving it greater legitimacy and recognition. This could lead to greater knowledge and understanding of the contributions of SSE to economic, social and environmental sustainability.
SSE is often rooted in local, small and grassroots initiatives. The UN resolution will likely empower these entities by encouraging member states to recognize and support their efforts.
Central to SSE is its alignment with sustainable development. The resolution reaffirms this alignment and could lead to more SSE initiatives explicitly designed to contribute to the SDGs.
Challenges and limitations
Despite the optimism, it is important to recognize the challenges and limitations. Transforming policy into action takes time, and the real impact on the ground of resolution could be more gradual than immediate.
While it is unlikely that 2024 will see a complete transformation of the SSE landscape due to this resolution, it does lay the groundwork for significant progress.
The key will be how the United Nations, member states and other actors translate this resolution into concrete actions that empower and elevate SSE globally.
conclusion
Now it’s our choice. We trust? do we doubt The glass is half full or half empty. The truth is that something relevant has happened for the first time. And what is also clear is that it is each of us who, with our actions, will facilitate the transit of SSE from politics to concrete reality.
