Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Introduction

• In 2015, world leaders from 193 countries agreed on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• The SDGs serve as a global action plan for the next 15 years aimed at:
  • Eradicating extreme poverty and hunger
  • Fighting inequality
  • Tackling climate change
  • Achieving sustainable development for all

Background

• SDGs follow the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) established in 2000.
• Achievements of the MDGs:
  • Over half of people living in extreme poverty have declined since 1990.
  • Increased access to primary education for both girls and boys.
  • Improved access to water and essential medicines.
• However, the progress of MDGs has been mixed:
  • Over 800 million people still live in extreme poverty.
  • Vulnerability to climate change and environmental degradation persists.
  • Progress in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia is significantly less than other regions.
• MDGs measured success based on national averages, overlooking marginalized groups.

New Challenges and Adoption of SDGs

• New challenges recognized: Human prosperity must align with environmental protection.
• After a 3-year participatory process, leaders adopted 17 Sustainable Development Goals:
  1. End poverty for all
  2. Freedom from hunger
  3. Health and well-being
  4. Quality education
  5. Gender equality
  6. Clean water and sanitation
  7. Sustainable energy for all
  8. Decent work and economic development
  9. Innovation and resilient infrastructure

10. Reducing inequalities
11. Sustainable cities and communities
12. Sustainable consumption and production
13. Action on climate change
14. Healthy oceans
15. Sustainable ecosystems
16. Peace and justice
17. Global partnerships

Underlying Principles of SDGs

1. Universality:
   • Applies to all countries, rich and poor, North and South.
   • Recognizes that global challenges require global solutions.
2. Integration:
   • Combines economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainability.
   • Example: Growing food sustainably without damaging soil or water.
3. Leave No One Behind:
   • Goals must be met for everyone, including the most vulnerable.
   • Focus on marginalized communities: Indigenous, rural, women, people with disabilities.
4. Participation:
   • Involvement of all stakeholders in the process of developing SDGs.
   • Strong sense of ownership and ongoing participation is essential for implementation.

Conclusion

• The SDGs, together with the Paris Climate Change Agreement, form a new framework for sustainable development.
• Continued dialogue, consultation, and participation at national and local levels are vital for success.