___________
Where We Are
Inequality threatens long-term social and economic development, harms poverty reduction and destroys people’s sense of fulfillment and self-worth.
The incomes of the poorest 40 per cent of the population had been growing faster than the national average in most countries, but emerging yet inconclusive evidence suggests that COVID-19 may have disrupted this positive trend.
The global refugee population has surged to 37.8 million, intensifying humanitarian pressures. At the same time, reports of discrimination are on the rise worldwide, particularly affecting urban residents, women, persons with disabilities, and the poor. 1 in 5 people worldwide report experiencing discrimination on grounds prohibited by international law within the past year, with rates highest in least developed countries.
Getting Goal 10 back on track will require providing extra support for vulnerable population groups, combating rising discrimination, protecting labour income and introducing structural reforms to boost growth in emerging and developing economies.
Read more about Goal 10: https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/inequality/
SDG 10 in Numbers
- The global refugee ratio stood at 460 per 100,000 people worldwide – more than twice the rate in 2015 and over three times the level in 2005.
- In 2024, 57% of working-age persons were employed worldwide, meaning that labour income directly impacts the lives of 3.6 billion workers and their families.
- 7 out of 10 upper-middle- and high-income countries have achieved more rapid growth for the bottom 40% of their population.
- Persons with disabilities face discrimination at 28% compared to the 17% for those without disabilities.
“Inequalities can be beaten — if we commit to policies that promote equity rather than clinging to the same failed approaches. We must do so on several fronts.”
– António Guterres, UN Secretary-General, 15 January 2025
In Focus
1 | World AIDS Day
HIV/AIDS continues to have an impact on communities throughout the world, serving as a reminder of the value of awareness, solidarity, and universal access to healthcare. This year’s theme is “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response”, highlighting the impact that global funding cuts have had as well as to showcase the resilience of countries and communities protecting the gains made and how to drive the HIV response forward. A new report by UNAIDS will also be launched. Read more here.
3 | International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD)
IDPD emphasizes the value of accessibility and inclusion in our communities by honoring the resilience and contributions of those with disabilities. This year’s theme is “Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress”, building on the momentum of the Second World Summit for Social Development, held in Doha on 4-6 November 2025. A commemorative event will take place at the UN Headquarters in New York on 3 December from 10:00 to 11:30 am EST, which will be available in person and online. Additional information and registration details for the event can be found here.
10 | Human Rights Day
Human Rights Day marks the fundamental principles that connect us all together. It serves as a reminder that everyone deserves freedom, equality, and respect. The theme for this year, “Our Everyday Essentials”, focuses on how human rights are a pathway to solutions and their relevance in our everyday lives. Further details and campaign initiatives for this year’s theme can be found here.
Highlights
5 things you may have missed in 2025
- The United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) marked the ratification of the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement), enabling States to protect and use marine biodiversity sustainably.
- The global community came together at the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) to adopt the Sevilla Commitment, which emphasizes concrete solutions to today’s financing challenges, political determination, and renewed hope for the SDGs.
- The 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly highlighted the urgency of delivering on the promise of the Sustainable Development Goals. Watch highlights from the SDG Media Zone from UNGA80 here.
- At the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar, world leaders adopted the Doha Political Declaration, signalling renewed resolve to advance justice, inclusive policies, and social progress worldwide.
- 195 Parties approved the Belém Package at the 30th UN Climate Change Conference, which includes a call for tripling climate adaptation funding as well as the Mutirão Decision for collective, continuous efforts for climate action.
International Days
12 December | International Universal Health Coverage Day
This day aims to raise awareness of the need for strong and resilient health systems and universal health coverage. Universal Health Coverage is based on the principles that everyone, everywhere, should have access to the health services they need without risk of financial hardship. This year’s theme is “Unaffordable health costs? We’re sick of it!”, reminding government decision-makers that unaffordable health costs are making our communities poorer and sicker and holding us back on all of the Sustainable Development Goals. Get involved with the campaign here.
18 | International Migrant’s Day
International Migrants Day shines a spotlight on the invaluable contributions of millions of migrants around the world, and highlights the increasingly complex environment in which migration occurs. Conflicts, climate-related disasters and economic pressures continue to drive millions of people from their homes in search of safety or simply opportunity. Learn more about building a world where migration is safe, orderly, and beneficial for everyone.
20 | International Human Solidarity Day
International Human Solidarity Day emphasizes the importance of working together to address global challenges and promote the well-being of all people. This day serves as an opportunity to celebrate achievements made through solidarity and to recommit to building a more just and equitable world. Learn more here.
Act Now for a Just Society
Just societies realize human rights, leaving no one behind. Everyone should have enough food, and quality health care and education. All kinds of discrimination must end. Daily life is where a just society begins.
ActNow is the United Nations campaign to inspire people to act for the Sustainable Development Goals. We all have a part to play; and together we can make a real difference. Visit ActNow to learn more and download the app: https://www.un.org/actnow
UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina J. Mohammed, is known for making the impossible possible, and has relied on a strong moral compass and the strength of her convictions across a long and varied career of service. In this episode, the UN Deputy Secretary-General reflects on what the Sustainable Development Goals have meant in her own life and shares what chocolate and traditional clothes have to do with strong leadership. Listen to the full episode here.
Discover all the episodes and previous seasons here -> https://pod.link/1429922419