In the framework of tracking the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in particular SDG7 and its related indicators, the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is organizing a seminar on: “Monitoring the Implementation of Energy Related SDG Indicators” in the Arab Region.
 
The objective of the seminar is to consult on the progress achieved by ESCWA’s member countries on the implementation of the SDG7 goals with additional focus on climate actions and the interlinkages between SDG7 and SDG13 and finally provide an opportunity to fill the data gaps present in the Arab region.

This meeting is an opportunity for dialogue between experts from various regional organizations on the most effective ways to promote regional connectivity



Refugees and internally displaced persons are still ongoing crises in Iraq and in many countries in the Arab region, not only as a result to the armed conflicts, but also as economic and social challenges. These crises are burdening the affected Arab governments and societies from finding comprehensive solutions. The challenges and threats of the refugees’ crisis exceed the national levels, currently it is one of the most fundamental humanitarian crises at the international level. It grabbed the attention of most of the International organizations and governments, working together to draft resolutions and policies to subside this influx and its dimensions. Furthermore, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and mainly in the Goal 16, is considered among the most emphasized plans dealing with issues of refugees, immigrants, and internally displaced persons.
In fact, refugees and internally displaced persons are not only the most vulnerable groups in terms of the basic needs; food, shelter, and medical healthcare, but they are also among the most marginalized groups. They suffer from exclusion, discrimination, and oppression, not only in the hosting country, but also in their own, posing the threat of fragmentation to the social fabric. Analyzing the reasons behind the problems of refugees and internally displaced persons in Iraq by using the approach of the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development and the Goal 16, will help us to assess the challenges and obstacles the refugees may face, to identify their scarcities, and to draft solutions. Using this approach will also allow us to settle the appropriate plans and frames needed, first to ensure integration to all refugees in the hosting community, and second to create the appropriate environment for the refugees to return to the areas they abandoned.