About the Event

UPEACE had a great time at this year’s High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), which was held from July 14–23, 2025. The forum served as a platform for reviewing the progress that has been made on the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and this year’s discussions were based on SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 16 (Inclusive societies). First members of UPEACE listened to special events by local governments and organizations discussing the work that must be done to give each city a voice and opportunity to speak on the global stage. Members of UPEACE and UPEACENY were fully engaged throughout the sessions, attending impactful events hosted by key UN-affiliated organizations. At a roundtable organized by the Bahá'í International Community (BIC), UPEACE joined discussions on gender inequality and the threats women’s rights are facing worldwide. Later, at an event hosted by Peace Boat, the focus turned to safeguarding ocean ecosystems and presenting the innovative work of Peace Boat and its interns. UPEACE’s Special Advisor to the Permanent Observer, Melissa Wild, spoke at this event in which she talked about the threats that the ocean and its animals are under, as well as the work UPEACE can do to help support these ef- the efforts made by Peace Boat. Overall, this year’s HLPF was a remarkable opportunity for UPEACE to strengthen its commitment to the SDGs, create dialogue on urgent global issues, and build lasting partnerships with fellow UN-affiliated organizations.