New york: The Human Environmental Association for Development (HEAD) proudly participated in a dynamic UN side event during the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, held at the Baha’i International Community’s UN Office in New York. Co-sponsored by HEAD and organized by the Green Hope Foundation, the event, titled “Fostering Sustainable Economic Development through Social Equity and Environmental Stewardship,” brought together global experts to explore innovative pathways toward inclusive, sustainable economic systems.

According to National News Agency – Lebanon, as HEAD’s President and representative for the West Asia region, Marie Therese Seif delivered a compelling address on the urgent need for holistic action in a region facing climate change, armed conflict, and deep socio-economic disparities. She emphasized that unsustainable practices have ravaged ecosystems and strained livelihoods, while women and youth remain underrepresented despite their active grassroots leadership. Her call for inclusive economic policies, gender equality, and nature-based solutions resonated powerfully as a roadmap for achieving SDG 8 and advancing the goals of Agenda 2030.

The event also featured contributions from Maria Jose Baptista (UNEP, Interagency and Intergovernmental Affairs, NY Office), Nitin Ajmera (Chief Financial Officer, Plant Agricultural Systems, NY), Steve Chiu (Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation), Cecilia Schirmeister (Baha’i International Community), and Kehkashan Basu (Founder, Green Hope Foundation), each bringing valuable insights and expertise to the discussion on fostering inclusive and sustainable development. The event served as a collaborative platform for sharing best practices, forging partnerships, and catalyzing long-term, people-centered development.