Organised by the Global Forum for Sustainable Development and supported by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia and Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, Belgrade will host the international conference Sustainable Development Forum 2025: “Competitiveness in Turbulent Times”, taking place on 30–31 October 2025. The event will bring together leading experts, distinguished academics, diplomats, and representatives of international institutions, banks, and companies investing in sustainability.
The Forum will address a range of current and pressing topics, including trade in times of global uncertainty and how countries can safeguard their economic stability. Discussions will also focus on the energy paradox – striking the balance between decarbonisation, energy security, and competitiveness. One of the central themes will be the role of artificial intelligence in driving sustainable innovation, as well as the risks it poses. Special attention will be given to food systems, food security, equity, and sustainability.
A particularly significant panel will be the discussion between the three chief negotiators of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — David Donoghue, Csaba Kőrösi, and Macharia Kamau — diplomats who played a key role in shaping the 2030 Agenda and the 17 SDGs.
The conference will also feature Professor Jeffrey Sachs, one of the world’s foremost experts on sustainable development. Other confirmed speakers include:
- Matilde Mordt, UN Resident Coordinator in Serbia
- Jorge Laguna-Celis, Director of the One Planet Network at UNEP
- Lord Martin Rees, Astronomer Royal and former President of the Royal Society
- Michael Pollitt, Professor of Business Economics at the University of Cambridge
- Lucia Reich, Director of the El-Erian Institute for Behavioural Economics and Policy
- Khaled Soufani, Director of the Circular Economy Centre at Judge Business School
- Tracey Horn, Director of Communications and Marketing at Judge Business School
The Forum will include fireside chats, initiative showcases, and networking sessions, offering a unique opportunity for the exchange of ideas between public, private, and academic sectors.
Sustainable Development Forum 2025 places Belgrade at the heart of the global conversation on green transition and sustainability, while also offering domestic companies the opportunity to present their solutions to the international community and establish new partnerships.
For all further enquiries (including sponsorship opportunities, panel participation, or bulk ticket purchases), please contact us at: 📩 office@sustainabledevforum.org