The UP Asian Center is now accepting applications (abstracts) for student presenters to the Trans-Pacific Sustainability Dialogue 2025 co-organized with UP CIFAL Philippines, the Walter H. Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center of Stanford University (APARC), and the Ban Ki-moon Foundation for a Better Future (BKMF). The deadline for applications is 13 October 2025, 12 PM (Manila Time). The call is open only to senior-level undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled in any university in the Philippines.
ABOUT THE TRANS-PACIFIC SUSTAINABILITY DIALOGUE
The Trans-Pacific Sustainability Dialogue is a joint initiative of the Walter H. Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center (APARC) at Stanford University and the Ban Ki-moon Foundation For a Better Future to accelerate progress on achieving the United Nations-adopted 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Launched in October 2022, the annual dialogue spurs new research and policy partnerships between experts from the United States and Asia to expedite the implementation of the Agenda’s underlying 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by governments and non-state actors.
Dialogue convenings aim to address different themes selected from the SDGs framework spearheaded by Mr. Ban Ki-moon during his term as the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations. The dialogue series continues to bring together new networks of social science researchers, scientists, policymakers, industry experts, and young leaders to bridge disciplines and accelerate actionable strategies and solutions to advance a sustainable and just future for all. In its recent convenings, the dialogue focused on the themes of gender equality (SDG 5) and energy security (SDG 7).
Reference: "Annual Trans-Pacific Sustainability Dialogue." n.d. Walter H. Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center, Freeman Spogli Institute of International Studies, Stanford University. https://aparc.fsi.stanford.edu/event-series-trans-pacific-sustainability-dialogue
ABOUT THE GUEST OF HONOR AND SPEAKER
BAN KI-MOON
Former United Nations Former Secretary-General
Ban Ki-moon, the eighth Secretary-General of the United Nations (2007–2016), dedicated his tenure to addressing global challenges such as climate change, poverty, gender inequality, and conflict. Drawing inspiration from his childhood experiences in war-torn Korea and the UN’s role in his country’s recovery, he sought to make the organization more effective, transparent, and responsive to the world’s most vulnerable. His leadership saw landmark initiatives including the 2007 Climate Change Summit, the creation of UN Women, and major mobilizations for the Millennium Development Goals and global health. Ban advanced peacekeeping reforms, strengthened humanitarian responses, and promoted accountability for human rights violations, while also pushing for disarmament and nuclear safety reforms after Fukushima. A career diplomat and former South Korean Foreign Minister, Ban combined decades of international experience with a deep commitment to peace, development, and human rights, supported by his wife, Yoo Soon-taek, who has championed women’s and children’s welfare. Read more.
THE THEMES
From Risk to Readiness: Strengthening Urban Systems for Disaster Resilience
This workshop invites early-career professionals and emerging urban researchers to share innovative approaches to reducing disaster risk in urban areas. Aligned with SDG 11, Target 11.5, the session focuses on strategies to mitigate the impact of natural and human-made hazards, with particular attention to protecting vulnerable populations and minimizing economic losses. Participants will present ongoing or completed research and engage in peer dialogue around risk-informed urban planning, data-driven early warning systems, inclusive resilience strategies, and post-disaster recovery frameworks.
Reimagining Public Spaces: Critical Approaches for Accessible and Responsive Urban Environments
This workshop invites early-career professionals and emerging urban researchers to critically explore how cities creatively design and build public spaces that are inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the needs of local communities. Anchored in SDG 11, Target 11.7, the session focuses on equitable access to green spaces, inclusive design of public environments, and the social and spatial dynamics of belonging in urban life. This session provides a collaborative space to exchange ideas, receive feedback, and contribute to shaping green and public spaces that promote dignity, safety, well-being, and community for women, children, older adults, persons with disabilities, and historically underserved groups.
ELIGIBILITY
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- Must be a senior-level undergraduate or graduate-level student currently enrolled in any university in the Philippines.
- Must be able to attend the dialogue and present onsite on 11 November 2025 at the Asian Center, UP Diliman
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
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- The abstract submission must be written in English or Filipino, not exceeding 200 words.
- Submissions must use the latest APA reference style.
- The deadline for submission is on 13 October 2025, Monday, 12:00 PM (PH Time). Results will be released on or before 20 October 2025 through email. Additional guidelines will be sent to qualified proposals.
ABOUT THE ORGANIZER
The dialogue is organized by the UP Asian Center, the UP CIFAL Philippines, the Walter H. Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center of Stanford University (APARC), and the Ban Ki-moon Foundation for a Better Future (BKMF).