Salesian reflections from the UN High-Level Political Forum 2025
From 14 to 19 July 2025, Don Bosco’s delegation, representing Salesian Missions at the UN, Don Bosco International (DBI), and the Salesian Youth Ministry department, attended the United Nations High-Level Political Forum – HLPF 2025 in New York. This year’s Forum, held under the theme “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda,” focused on five key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
As Salesians committed to the holistic development of young people, especially those in vulnerability and social marginalisation, we found ourselves deeply engaged in the discussions, inspired by the shared urgency and collective commitment to building a more just and sustainable world.
The 2025 SDG Report revealed both progress and persistent challenges. While progress has been made in health and social protection, with five years to go, only 15% of the targets have been achieved. These realities call for intensified efforts, especially in areas that directly affect the lives of young people and communities at risk of poverty and marginalisation.
Gender equality emerged as a central theme. SDG 5 was described not only as a development goal but as the backbone of all global progress. Events highlighted the urgent need to address setbacks in women’s rights and safety. We were inspired by grassroots leaders and young feminists who shared their lived experiences and called for inclusive policies and financing mechanisms.
Discussions around SDG 8 resonated strongly with our mission to accompany young people toward decent employment, which leads to proper livelihood and dignity. The International Labour Organization (ILO) reported that while 8 million new jobs could be created by 2030 in the circular economy, youth and women must be equipped with green and digital skills to access these opportunities. We participated in sessions that emphasised vocational education and training (TVET), especially for youth in need. Countries like Canada, Egypt, and Norway shared inspiring initiatives.
One of the most impactful side events addressed modern slavery and human trafficking. The discussions highlighted systemic failures and the moral imperative to act. Ethical investment and transparency were framed not just as financial issues but as matters of human dignity. The private sector was urged to support local NGOs and adopt due diligence policies to prevent exploitation. These calls align with our grassroots work in communities around the world, where we commit to protect children and youth from human rights violations.
Youth voices were central throughout the Forum. We were proud to witness young leaders presenting innovative solutions in areas like sustainable fishing, eco-friendly textiles, and waste reduction. Their creativity and courage reaffirmed our belief that young people are not just beneficiaries of development, but its architects. Events like “Bridging the Gap: Green Skills to Finance for Youth Employment” emphasised the need for institutionalised youth participation and access to green skills and funds. These are areas where we, as Salesians, continue to invest through education, mentorship, and advocacy.
Sessions on data-driven policymaking reminded us of the importance of evidence-based planning. Speakers from Nigeria, Ghana, and Guatemala shared strategies for integrating data into national development frameworks to inform better decisions and ensure that no one is left behind.
SDG 3 discussions on harm reduction in drug policy were both sobering and hopeful. Mexico’s leadership in promoting health and human rights, along with successful models from Switzerland and the Czech Republic, offered valuable insights and emphasis on community-led services.
SDG 17 reminded us of the power of collaboration and multilateralism. The Forum stressed the importance of multilateralism, shared responsibility, civil society, academia and corporate engagement. NGOs called to protect civic space and ensure that international standards are upheld, even in times of political and financial pressures, as well as backsliding on partnerships for development. Several institutional and civil society actors have demanded debt restructuring or cancellation initiatives.
“The Sustainable Development Goals are not a dream. They are a plan. A plan to keep our promises — to the most vulnerable people, to each other, and to future generations.”, as stated by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in his opening remarks. Ensuring good health, gender equality, decent work, environmental protection, and strong global partnerships means creating a world where youth can thrive, where dignity is upheld, and where the planet is preserved for those yet to come.
This Forum reminded us that hope is not abstract; it is active and collective. As we return to our communities and continue our work, we carry with us the insights, inspiration, and solidarity we experienced at HLPF 2025.
Article by our supporter Don Bosco International & Salesian Missions at the UN