15 July 2013: The Division for Sustainable Development (DSD) in the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) hosted an online chat on the subjects of Future Generations and Intergenerational Solidarity, on 15 July 2015. The chat brought together DESA experts on the topic and participants from more than ten countries.

Over two hours of live chat, DESA representatives answered more than 50 questions from participants, many from youth representatives. Discussion focused on: the possible creation of an institution for the protection and representation of future generations; the management of existing natural resources for the future; the quality and quantity of youth education; and potential trade-offs between the present and the future. Experts highlighted the need for any new institution to have the support of the entire UN system and civil society, maintain effective strategy, and have high-profile leadership.

A previous online consultation, held from 26 June-10 July 2013, collected inputs from civil society on the topic of intergenerational solidarity.

Both consultations were intended to inform the UN Secretary-General’s forthcoming report on promoting intergenerational solidarity for sustainable development. [DESA Press Release] [DSD Facebook Page for Event] [IISD RS Sources]