MINSK, 24 January (BelTA) – Mass media will constitute an additional group in the national architecture for achieving the SDGs, Belarus National Coordinator for SDGs, Vice Speaker of the Council of the Republic Marianna Shchetkina told journalists, BelTA has learned.
In her opinion, there is still much to be done so that the society fully understands the essence of the SDGs and the role of each person in achieving them. “We count on mass media to help us with this. It is good that the information minister suggested setting up an additional group in the national architecture which will include mass media, the journalists who are well familiar with the topic. On 24 January, we held the first meeting with them. We admit that awareness raising campaigns should be comprehensive. Of course, they should be carried out in social networks, too,” Marianna Shchetkina added.
She also emphasized the role of the partner group that receives suggestions from public associations. “There are unofficial leaders who are responsible for various lines of work: economy, environment etc. We consider all suggestions, as it is everyone's task,” the national coordinator said.
The United Nations adopted the Agenda 2030 in 2015. It includes 17 goals aimed at eradicating poverty, fighting inequality and injustice, mitigating the climate change. The Agenda 2030 is a comprehensive strategy to improve the quality of people's lives, to promote development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. All 17 goals are being adapted for Belarus. Belarus' national architecture for achieving the SDGs includes the Council for Sustainable Development (which includes representatives from all government agencies), partners and other groups, civil society and international organizations. All their proposals will be reflected in the national sustainable development strategy until 2035. The policy documents, legislation will also rely on the Agenda 2030 goals.
The first national forum on sustainable development is taking place in Minsk on 24 January. It has brought together all stakeholders working to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and also international partners. During plenary and panel sessions, the participants will exchange views and vocalize proposals regarding the future work on achieving the SDGs and the necessary measures for the improvement of this work. The forum will set the guidelines for short-, medium-and long-term prospects.
