ActNow is the UN campaign to inspire people to act for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In the lead up to the Summit of the Future, join the 1 Million Actions for our Common Future challenge to contribute to a more sustainable and peaceful world. Find new inspiring actions on the app and at un.org/actnow.
When geography hinders growth
Home to over 600 million people, the 32 Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) face a highly challenging pathway to sustainable development due to the lack of sea access, geographical isolation, and trade costs that are 30% higher than those of coastal countries. To raise awareness, the UN General Assembly proclaimed 6 August as the International Day of Awareness of the Special Development Needs and Challenges of Landlocked Developing Countries. The first celebration of this day coincides with the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, currently being held in Awaza, Turkmenistan.