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The Thirteenth International Forum on Energy for Sustainable Development brought together global leaders and experts in Bangkok to address the challenges and opportunities of an inclusive energy transition. Over three days of intense discussions, key strategies were explored to expand access to renewable energy, promote gender equity, and strengthen regional cooperation. The event concluded with the signing of a United Nations Joint Statement, reaffirming the global commitment to building a sustainable and socially equitable energy future.

From December 2th to 4th, 2024, the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok, Thailand, became the epicenter of global dialogue on sustainable energy during the Thirteenth International Forum on Energy for Sustainable Development (IFESD). Under the theme “Acting for a Just Energy Transition,” the event brought together government leaders, energy experts, representatives from international organizations, the private sector, academia, and civil society.
Organized by the five United Nations Regional Commissions, the forum underscored the urgent need to accelerate the energy transition as a central pillar for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement targets. During three days of intensive debates, topics such as universal access to modern energy services, increasing the share of renewables in national energy mixes, energy efficiency, the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence, critical minerals for the transition, and sustainable electric mobility were addressed.
A key highlight was the emphasis on ensuring this transformation is "just," prioritizing social inclusion, gender equity, and climate resilience. Participants agreed on the importance of integrating vulnerable communities into transition strategies to ensure no one is left behind in the journey towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) participated in the sessions "Energy Connectivity for Sustainable Development" and "Energy Connectivity for Secure and Resilient Power Systems." These discussions focused on strategies to strengthen regional energy connectivity and promote cross-border energy trade as essential means to enhance the security, resilience, and sustainability of energy systems. ECLAC contributed to the discussion by sharing Latin America and the Caribbean's experience, emphasizing lessons learned from the Central American Regional Electricity Market.
Additionally, ECLAC participated in the session "Enhancing CRM Value Chain for Local and Global Collaboration," which was dedicated to mechanisms for technology transfer and innovation. The session highlighted strategies to foster technology transfer, capacity building, and the incorporation of principles from the United Nations Resource Management System (UNRMS) in the sustainable development of critical mineral value chains.
The forum concluded with a significant milestone: the Executive Secretaries of the five UN Regional Commissions signed a Joint Statement on the Energy Transition. The document highlighted the need to accelerate regional cooperation, promote sustainable investments, and ensure an equitable and socially inclusive energy transition. It also reaffirmed their commitment to work with Member States in key areas such as expanding renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and mobilizing resources for underserved communities. This joint effort marks a decisive step towards a more sustainable and inclusive global energy future.