On March 28, when the warmth of spring returned, the 6th SSI Symposium “Living and Working” was held in a hybrid format at Osaka University’s Nakanoshima Center (in-person venue) and in the metaverse space (online venue).

This symposium was co-hosted by Osaka University’s Social Solution Initiative (SSI) and the NGO “Global Sustainability Network” (GSN), which includes global entrepreneurs and philanthropists among its members. The theme of the event was to explore the ideal economic, social, and urban development towards achieving the SDGs. It provided a platform for experts and participants from various fields both domestically and internationally to engage in discussions.

At the main in-person venue, presenters and participants from diverse backgrounds, including different nationalities, cultures, and social standings, actively exchanged opinions across genres. They discussed what is necessary and what needs to change for a society where all lives are respected and can shine. The discussions, sometimes taking a broad view and sometimes focusing on individual perspectives, encompassed various fields. This resulted in many insights and a warm exchange that hinted at the realization of global partnerships, creating an atmosphere that anticipated the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan.

Opening Remarks

The symposium began with an explanation of the purpose of the event by Professor Takuo Dome, the head of Osaka University’s SSI. Following this, a video introducing the co-hosting organization GSN was shown. After the video, Raza Jafar, the representative of GSN, delivered a message and raised issues that would permeate the entire symposium.

– Raza Jafar (Representative of GSN)

Many people believe that we will not achieve the SDGs by 2030, despite it being a commitment made by the leaders of 193 countries. Failing to meet this commitment will negatively impact the Earth, humanity, and all living beings. To achieve the SDGs, humanity must unite—not just within individual countries, but as a single human race. During his visit to Japan, He has experienced its many wonderful aspects, but He has also noticed some areas needing improvement, such as the lack of global integration, the slow progress in promoting diversity, and insufficient awareness about modern slavery. They must prioritize humanity. However, this symposium represents hope, and speaking here, they has found a valuable opportunity in Japan.

Talk Session

The main talk session featured four experts from various fields as panelists. Under the moderation of Associate Professor Fumiko Matsumoto, each panelist began by discussing their respective themes.

– Scott Cunningham (GSN member, founder of SDGuild)

As an entrepreneur and investor in the technology sector, he provided insights on how new technologies can effectively address social issues.

To harness new technologies like AI for human well-being, it is essential to maintain a human-centered approach. Additionally, ensuring the reliability and accountability of these systems, as well as eliminating various biases, is crucial. Achieving this requires collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

– KITA Michihiro (Professor, Graduate School of Engineering Osaka University /Deputy Director of SSI /New-POD Deputy Division Head)

From the perspective of a researcher in architecture and urban design who focuses on inheriting “local contexts” in communities and cities both domestically and internationally, there was a presentation on practical efforts to improve informal settlements (slum areas) in Africa.

The community as a whole, including cities and towns, and the spirituality of the individuals living there interact mutually, continually shaping and renewing spatial and social spirituality. Experiences of overcoming negative events such as disasters, conflicts, and poverty are also crucial to the mental structure of towns and communities. In areas with high slum residency rates in Africa, when children deeply understand their residential areas, it can lead to the regeneration of local networks and the creation of new jobs. These realities could be leveraged to address social issues.

– Mariko Yamaoka (Representative of Not For Sale Japan (NFSJ) / Publishing Translator)

From her position as someone who established NFSJ in 2011 to raise awareness about human trafficking and modern slavery, issues she learned about through her work in publishing translation, Mariko Yamaoka explained the current situation. She emphasized that there is a lack of recognition within Japan that the problems occurring domestically are equivalent to human trafficking and modern slavery. She discussed her efforts to engage with the government, businesses, and consumers to address these issues.

According to the government’s annual report, there were 46 victims of human trafficking in Japan in 2022, the majority of whom were Japanese. Of these, 33 were children under the age of 18, making up 70% of the total. Issues include labor exploitation under the Technical Intern Training Program for foreign workers, sexual exploitation such as forced prostitution through host club debts, and the problem of illegal part-time jobs as a new form of human trafficking. Many Japanese people lack awareness of these human trafficking issues. Additionally, Japan has been criticized internationally for importing products made through slave labor abroad, highlighting the need to strengthen human rights due diligence.

・Irene Gampel (GSN Member, Founder of the Foundation)
Born in Ukraine, she moved to Israel at the age of 11 and, after achieving success in the business field in the United States, established a foundation to address the needs of the most vulnerable people worldwide. From her international perspective, Irene Gampel shared her thoughts on philanthropy and her dedication to solving social issues.

She began her philanthropic journey with a project aimed at improving toilet conditions in Nicaragua. Her goal was to alleviate the suffering caused by pervasive global issues and make the world a slightly better place. However, she realized that addressing just one toilet or alleviating the pain of one person was far from enough. The spirit of “leaving no one behind,” which encompasses all lives, is crucial. This spirituality generates the courage to resist injustices that treat humans as mere objects, expands collaboration, and fosters unity. Through these efforts, she aspires to eradicate modern slavery and achieve decent work worldwide.

Q&A and Discussion

Following the presentations by the four panelists, the discussion segment began with the panelists responding to questions from the in-person audience.

As Raza Jafar led the entire venue towards a friendly and lively exchange of opinions, the discussion gradually transitioned into an organic and international exchange of ideas involving all participants. People from diverse backgrounds re-examined the symposium’s theme of what is necessary to achieve the SDG goals from various perspectives. It not only provided time for this reflective dialogue but also highlighted the importance of education, a theme that many participants emphasized.

After extensive discussions covering a wide range of themes, Professor Dome provided a summary of the symposium. He explained the structure of the “mutual support society” as envisioned by the Inochi Forum, where the lives of those who support others are also supported. This concept was shared with all participants, bringing the successful symposium to a close.