Scotland chairs international sustainability network of regions in Brazil

The Regions4 network connects regional governments to the United Nations and works to tackle climate change and improve strategies on biodiversity and sustainable development.

It is made up of 48 regional governments from 22 countries in four continents. Around 80 representatives from subnational governments around the world were in attendance.

(Image: Regions4)

This year’s general assembly, held in Rio de Janeiro from Wednesday to Friday, was hosted by the government of Rio de Janeiro and chaired by Scotland, which has now taken over from the Basque Country to become president of the network.

The theme of the assembly was “empowered regions shaping a sustainable, just and resilient future”, and regions adopted the Rio de Janeiro Declaration, which calls on a renewed UN system which supports cities and regions to untap their potential “to lead transformative actions today for a sustainable tomorrow”.

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The declaration also called on the UN to recognise the potential of regional governments’ voices in the decision-making process, asking for their voices to be represented.

The assembly took place ahead of several key global summits, including the UN Summit of the Future and the G20 Sherpa Meeting, which is also taking place in Rio de Janeiro.

From 2024 to 2026, the Scottish Government is now acting as the president of the Regions4 network, with priorities focused on funding for loss and damage, climate financing for biodiversity, climate justice initiatives, effective climate adaptation and better advocacy for the global south at COP summits.

(Image: Regions4)

In an address to the summit, First Minister John Swinney – who now assumes the role of president on behalf of Scotland – apologised for being unable to attend the event in person due to the General Election campaign.

“Maintaining healthy democracies is deeply entwined with maintaining the health of our planet for future generations,” Swinney said.

👏We are happy to announce The Scottish Government as the new President of Regions4! @ScotGovNetZero has a recent and proud history of providing clear climate leadership.

At Regions4 General Assembly, First Minister @JohnSwinney reaffirmed Scotland’s commitment to focus on… pic.twitter.com/OqI1TqgEtJ

— Regions4 (@Regions4SD) June 27, 2024

“Around half of the adult population of the world will have the opportunity to take part in elections this year.

“This gives us an opportunity to put sustainability at the forefront of global politics.

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“Scotland is absolutely committed to representing the interests of the entire network, and takes this presidency very seriously indeed.”

He added: “There can be no greater threat to global peace and prosperity than climate inaction.

“But know that when we come together and speak with one voice, and act with one purpose, the world takes notice.”

Delegates at the Regions4 general assembly in Rio de Janeiro (Image: Regions4)

In the closing remarks of the summit, Gharib Murbe – a key international climate change figure within the Scottish Government – thanked the network for “entrusting” the Scottish Government with the presidency.

He added: “To our members, we are committed to ensuring that you feel represented and that your priorities are heard and addressed.”

Natalia Uribe, secretary-general of Regions4, said: “Regional governments hold the key to deliver climate, biodiversity and the sustainable development agenda because they are on the frontlines in territories, implementing critical policies and driving tangible action that directly impacts communities and ecosystems.

“Our inclusion in the UN system as key decision-makers is vital to effectively address global challenges and achieve sustainable development goals.”