On February 3rd, more than 100 participants logged on to ”SMC Network Inspirational Day” – our international and digital adaptation of the annual membership days.

”It was great to step into the zoom room in the morning with all the different names and locations in countries where people were,” one of the participants said afterwards.

The focus of the day was the specific contribution of faith-based organisations to achieving the global goals of the 2030 Agenda. The keynote speakers’ lectures were recorded and are available on SMC’s Youtube channel in a special playlist.

Focus on the added value of faith-based organisations

One of them was the then Secretary of State Per Olsson-Fridh, who surprised many by speaking warmly of the added value of faith-based organisations in development cooperation. Two days later, he was appointed minister of development in Stefan Löfven’s government. Watch his full talk here: ”The Role of Faith Based Organizations in the Decade of Action

Professor Azza Karam, Secretary-General Religions for Peace made an impression bychallenging those of us who are religious to get better at collaborating – both other religious but also secular actors. Watch her full talk here: ”Religions and Agenda 2030- The Multi-Religious Imperative”

Dr. Ruth Valerio from Tearfund deepened the understanding of holistic mission and showed how well the global goals of the 2030 Agenda fit into a theological perspective. Watch her full talk here: ”The relationship between Holistic Mission and SDGs in an Evangelical perspective. Is there a tension or a happy marriage?”

Many participants agreed that hope is a particular added value that faith-based organisations contribute to the achievement of the global goals.

International exchange of experience

During the afternoon, there was an opportunity for talks in smaller groups on challenges in achieving results in capacity development work. The pass was held by Olivia Setkic, facilitator at sida partnership forum.

Many appreciated exchanging experiences with colleagues operating in other parts of the world. Although the participants came from different contexts, it was clear that many recognized each other’s challenges when it came to, for example, formulating goals or achieving results.

During day two, the Swedish Mission Council’s office and representatives of the member organizations gathered to talk about the planning for the coming year and the work to develop a new strategy for the next operational period 2022-2026.

Resource material from both Member Days can be found on the digital platform Fabo.

Want to know more about religion and Agenda 2030?

Here you will find in-depth interviews with:

Prof. Azza Karam: A fighter for cooperation with and between religious

Dr. Ruth Valerio: The Bible inspired work for the climate