The Second United Nations Global Sustainable Transport Conference convened from October 14th to 16th, 2021 at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, China. With the theme “Sustainable Transport, Sustainable Development”, it addressed vital topics such as poverty alleviation, international connectivity, and green development. The conference aimed to foster sustainable transport globally, regionally, and nationally through various sessions and forums.

On the evening of October 14th, 2021, the Second United Nations Global Sustainable Transport Conference commenced with President Xi Jinping delivering the keynote speech titled “Staying Connected with the World and Abreast with the Times,and Making Big Strides on the Path of Sustainable Development” via video. Invited leaders, including President Putin of Russia, President Berdimuhamedow of Turkmenistan, President Sahle-Work Zewde of Ethiopia, President Cortizo of Panama, Prime Minister Rutte of the Netherlands, and Secretary-General Guterres of the United Nations, also delivered speeches.

During the conference, Renmin University of China (RUC) deployed eighty volunteers selected jointly by Youth Volunteers Association of RUC and the School of Global Governance. They underwent unified volunteer service training in late September to familiarize themselves with their responsibilities. Throughout the event, these volunteers diligently fulfilled their duties according to the committee’s requirements, demonstrating enthusiasm and professionalism.During the opening ceremony, the volunteers took turns to watch President Xi Jinping’s keynote speech during their breaks, earnestly studying and understanding the spirit of his speech.

Volunteers’ reflections:

Ma Shuqi, member of School of Global Governance, School of Environment and Natural Resources, undergraduate student, Class of 2019:

Apart from the widely covered COP15 in Kunming, the Second United Nations Global Sustainable Transport Conference in Beijing is also significant. I’m proud to have volunteered for this conference. My role as a bilingual interpreter for the “Sustainable Transport and Poverty Alleviation” section allowed me to engage with foreign guests, enhancing my language skills and deepening my understanding of sustainable development. I made friends with many people, including a commentator from China Academy of Transportation Sciences, making the experience both challenging and rewarding. I look forward to seizing more opportunities like this, striving to improve myself and achieve my future aspirations!

Shen Jiaqian, member of School of Global Governance, School of Foreign Languages, undergraduate student, Class of 2018:

Engaging in activities like the “International Organization Competency Development Program” and the simulated climate negotiation with Tsinghua University last semester has brought the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to life for me. As a volunteer in the exhibition group at the Second United Nations Global Sustainable Transport Conference, I gained insights into China’s transportation development and its contributions to sustainable development through thematic exhibitions. The thematic sessions and the conference’s “Beijing Declaration” are pivotal in driving the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, shaping the future of transportation, livelihoods, climate action, and humanity. Volunteering at the conference was a profoundly inspiring experience for me.

Teng Yuan, member of School of Global Governance, School of Philosophy, undergraduate student, Class of 2018:

I’m honored to have been part of the security screening group for the Second United Nations Global Sustainable Transport Conference, contributing to the safety and order of the conference. Our role was challenging yet crucial—we assisted security personnel in conducting checks, translated instructions for foreign guests, and guided them into the venue. Before our shifts, we diligently rehearsed various dialogue scenarios to ensure clear and concise translations. This experience not only improved my English skills but also allowed me to utilize my knowledge of German at the C2 entrance, where translation might be needed. Interacting with representatives from diverse countries broadened my perspective and honed my adaptability. I’m eager to participate in similar events in the future and continue contributing to sustainable development!