The international ESG forum SO.KNOWLEDGE is set to take place in Nizhny Novgorod on December 4 and 5. The forum’s press service emphasizes that this event marks a significant step in strengthening collaboration between government and business to shape a new model of sustainable socio-economic development for Russia.
Officials explained that the forum will serve as the first platform to propose and establish sustainable development principles for BRICS nations. These principles will align with the United Nations 17 sustainable development goals while reflecting each member country’s unique economic and social structure. The aim is to craft a shared framework that respects diversity within the bloc and supports coordinated progress.
What is BRICS?
BRICS is an alliance comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, a group formalized in 2011. The acronym BRICS is derived from the initial letters of the member countries in English. The diverse economic systems within BRICS influence global markets and drive regional development strategies. In recent months, interest has grown from additional countries—Argentina, Iran, Algeria, Tunisia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Egypt—to join the bloc, signaling broader ambition for regional integration and trade partnerships.
During the forum, a strategic session will identify which sustainable development principles are most compatible with the Russian economy and which may require adaptation to national characteristics. Delegates will outline actionable plans for implementing these principles across industry sectors and regional contexts.
“The sustainable development agenda stands as a critical driver for growth not only in the Nizhny Novgorod region but for the country as a whole. The Forum aims to assemble domestic and international best practices into an integrated development concept for the coming years. In the Nizhny Novgorod region, the principles of sustainable development are already being applied with tangible results, and the opportunity to share experiences, propose solutions, and discuss common approaches is valuable,” stated Gleb Nikitin, Governor of the Nizhny Novgorod Region.
Russia is slated to assume the BRICS presidency in 2024, a role that positions the country at the forefront of addressing global and regional challenges. The event will include ministerial meetings among BRICS representatives focused on sustainable development in industry and environmental management, with sessions planned in the Nizhny Novgorod region.
The ESG forum is organized by the Nizhny Novgorod Region Government Corporate University and the OMG company, with support from the regional government. The venue is the MS Mayak Academy site in Sakharov, reflecting a collaboration that highlights local capacity and international engagement.
As part of the discussions, experts and policymakers are expected to review funding needs for BRICS climate projects and explore practical steps to advance green initiatives across member economies. The dialogue will emphasize concrete project pipelines, investment conditions, and policy reforms that can unlock sustainable growth while balancing social and ecological benefits. This approach aims to build a robust, action-oriented roadmap that can guide both public authorities and private sector actors in the years ahead. [Source: forum press service]