As we reach the halfway point of the 2030 Agenda, the urgency to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has never been more apparent. Unfortunately, only about 12% of the targets are currently on track, putting both the planet and its people at risk.
Civil society leader Mavalow Christelle Kalhoule, Forus Chair and President of SPONG, the Burkina Faso NGO network, emphasizes the global impact of issues in forgotten communities like the Sahel. Implementing the SDGs is crucial to shaping a better future for all.
The latest “Progressing National SDGs Implementation” report sheds light on how countries worldwide are faring in their pursuit of sustainable development. This year’s report is especially significant as it marks the midpoint towards the 2030 Agenda’s goals, revealing that the world is falling short.
The report, published annually since 2017, delves into key areas such as governance, civil society engagement, localization, policy coherence, and the principle of Leaving No One Behind. By combining official Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) with additional assessments, the report offers a comprehensive view of national progress.
While more countries are adopting ‘whole of government’ approaches to SDG implementation, there is a lack of ‘whole of society’ involvement, particularly with civil society partners. The report calls for a renewed global commitment to the SDGs, emphasizing the need for increased ambition, leaving no one behind, stronger partnerships, and improved monitoring.
Oli Henman from Action for Sustainable Development stresses the importance of inclusive SDG reviews and financing implementation at the community level. Wangu Mwangi, an expert in sustainable development and environmental journalism, authored the 2023 report, drawing on her vast experience in African development.
This collaborative effort was coordinated by A4SD, in partnership with various organizations, including ANND, BOND, Cooperation Canada, CPDE, Forus, IISD, Save The Children UK, and Sightsavers. The report underscores the necessity for concerted global action to ensure the transformative change promised in 2015 becomes a reality.