Global Esports Federation heads to the United Nations General Assembly

The Global Esports Federation (GEF) joins the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as an official supporter of SDG Digital on September 16–17 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

SDG Digital is held ahead of the 2023 SDG Summit to take stock of achievements, gaps, and opportunities, catalyse action, and step up digital support to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As part of the SDG Action Weekend, the event focuses on bringing digital solutions to scale, including new high-impact initiatives for sustainable, inclusive digital transformation.

GEF CEO Paul J. Foster, who leads the GEF delegation, shares, “As humans, we love to play games. Gaming and Esports exist in the digital world and are a big part of our daily lives and the global digital youth culture—it’s a fact. After years of distance and divide, it’s time to regenerate human connection through digital innovation. We are at a turning point with the Global Goals—success or failure. We need to connect with youth where they are, and we need their help and leadership to lift the SDGs from theory and innovation towards delivery and impact.”

In addition, the GEF is presenting the SDG Digital GameChangers Award for “Pioneers”, which focuses on unlocking ideas from youth. The award recognises a young innovator between the ages of 18 and 29, or a youth organisation stepping forward, acting as a trailblazer, and bringing fresh perspectives and creative solutions to build a sustainable future.

The GEF has identified key Global Social Impact Initiatives (GSIIs) where the world’s gaming and esports communities can make a significant impact in the future. The UN SDGs are of particular focus for the GEF in pursuit of real global impact. Refract Technologies is a global partner of the Global Esports Federation.