"So What?" Series: Gender and Innovation

This event will be the first in an ongoing series of conversations that focus on what the “indivisibility” of the Sustainable Development Goals actually means in practice. They aim to support policy makers and practitioners in translating the integrated nature of the SDGs into action.
This first iteration of the series will be held with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and will explore Gender Equality (SDG 5) and Innovation (SDG 9): “Gender Equality and Innovation: So What?”
Innovation and women’s empowerment are rarely discussed within the same context, yet each has essential value for a sustainable response to development. Both innovation and shifting gender roles are key for driving change. Innovation in technologies, processes and policies can foster women’s access to education, social programs, markets, business platforms and healthcare solutions. And women are important contributors to innovation as entrepreneurs and active citizens who are advancing solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
In the SDG “So What” Series we will hear the voices of three people with different backgrounds and perspectives on the issue. They will engage the audience in an interactive dialogue about advancing SDG 5 and 9 by leveraging their common linkages, focusing on what these connections actually mean in terms of implementation.
Special Guests:
Mr. Francis Gurry, Director General, World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
Mr. Michael Møller, Director General, United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG)
Her Excellency, Ms. Beatriz Londoño Soto, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Colombia to the United Nations Office

All attendees are welcome to stay for an aperitif following the event to celebrate the launch of the SDG Lab, generously provided by WIPO.