On 1 January 2016, the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development — adopted by world leaders in September 2015 at an historic UN Summit — officially came into force. Over the next fifteen years, with these new Goals that universally apply to all, countries will mobilize efforts to end all forms of poverty, fight inequalities and tackle climate change, while ensuring that no one is left behind.
The SDGs build on the success of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and aim to go further to end all forms of poverty. The new Goals are unique in that they call for action by all countries, poor, rich and middle-income to promote prosperity while protecting the planet. They recognize that ending poverty must go hand-in-hand with strategies that build economic growth and addresses a range of social needs including education, health, social protection, and job opportunities, while tackling climate change and environmental protection.
While the SDGs are not legally binding, governments are expected to take ownership and establish national frameworks for the achievement of the 17 Goals. Countries have the primary responsibility for follow-up and review of the progress made in implementing the Goals, which will require quality, accessible and timely data collection. Regional follow-up and review will be based on national-level analyses and contribute to follow-up and review at the global level.
Sustainable Development Goal 1: No Poverty
Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger
Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being
Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education
Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality
Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
Sustainable Development Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action
Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water
Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land
Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals