In Our Name: QUNO’s Witness for Sustainable and Just Economic Systems

The systems and cultures that perpetuate violence, discrimination and the destruction of our planet can feel impossible to challenge as an individual. In this series, we will hear from staff at the Quaker United Nations Office in Geneva about what they are doing in our name.

Economic systems are not neutral: they shape who benefits, who carries harm, and how public resources are used. In this session, we will explore QUNO’s work on the economic drivers of plastic pollution and fossil-fuel dependence, including subsidies and other forms of public support, and reflect on how Quaker witness and quiet diplomacy can create space for listening, trust-building and honest exchange in complex discussions at the UN and the World Trade Organization.

What responsibilities arise when public money supports activities that contribute to social and environmental harm? How can Quaker witness help bring questions of fairness, transparency and long-term harm into technical discussions on trade, public finance and sustainability?

These sessions will be delivered by Woodbrooke staff and QUNO staff working in collaboration. They will involve a mix of presentations, small group exploration in breakout rooms and whole group discussion. A resource document will be shared with participants after the session to suggest further places you can learn about, engage with and support QUNO’s work.