Progressing SDGs in Asia: Maximising Legal Pro Bono

Date: 1 December 2023

Time:  13.30 – 15.00

Session Description:

Building on the introduction of SDGs and ESGs at the 2022 APBC, this year, A4ID looks to launch a report showcasing the progress of SDGs within the region, documenting success stories, and providing tangible actions on how legal professionals within the region can play their role by maximising legal pro bono for sustainable development.

With less than seven years remaining to achieve the SDGs, it is crucial for the global legal community to come together and push towards sustainability. The region has had a  haphazard implementation strategy, leading to scattered progress. While many countries have worked towards achieving the targets, above the global average, many have also been below par. Being the most populous continent, a key manufacturing hub for global industries, and home to a significantly large variety of flora and fauna,  and, the region’s implementation of the SDGs will have a significant impact on the global order. Following the global COVID-19 pandemic that has halted SDGs progress, reports have indicated that  for the second year in a row, the world is no longer making progress on the SDGs.

A4ID will launch a new report at this session that will summarise the  status of SDGs in the region and will use case studies from Bangladesh, India and Nepal. The report will also assess the success stories and lessons learnt.

The session will bring experts from the region and from varied backgrounds to discuss the findings of the report and highlight how legal pro bono can support the effective achievement and realisation of the SDG targets. The session will aim to:

• Assess the current state of SDGs in the region
• Look at the success stories of SDG achievement and implementation- highlighting the role of law and lawyers
• Assess the role of legal professionals and pro bono in achieving the SDGs
• Highlight the business case for SDGs in light of emerging ESG compliance requirements as well as Mandatory Human Rights Due Diligence and Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting
• Call for action for all legal professionals to join in furthering SDGs- SDG Legal Initiative
• Presentation of A4ID’s paper on SDGs in the region.

Presenters:

Anita Ghazi Rahman l The Legal Circle