A side event to the Regional Forum for Sustainable Development 2023 on Gender and Energy: Overcoming Energy Poverty and Advancing a Just Energy Transition was organized on March 28 by the UN Women Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, in cooperation with the Stockholm Environment Institute and the French Development Agency. One of the panelists was Jasminka Young, programme director and co-founder of RES Foundation.
Energy is a fundamental human need and a critical driver of sustainable development. International commitments to climate neutrality envisage the radical transformation of our energy systems, and one of the key priorities is to do it in a fair and inclusive way. However, access to energy remains a challenge for many communities, especially for women and marginalized groups. Energy poverty is not only a matter of access to electricity and heating but also encompasses the availability, reliability, and affordability of energy services. As the world moves towards a more sustainable energy future, it is essential to ensure that the energy transition is inclusive, equitable, and just for all.
The side event of the Regional Forum for Sustainable Development 2023 aimed to bring together experts from ECE region to discuss the intersection of gender and energy. The event focuses on two critical areas: energy poverty and just energy transitions. The goal is to share experiences and insights, identify challenges, and explore opportunities to overcome energy poverty and advance just energy transitions in the region.
Agenda of the side event available on link.