SDGs

UN Strategic Development Goals: What Impact So Far?

Why SDGs are Off-Track : Discursive Instead of Political Impact

An analysis of over 3,000 scientific studies published between 2016 and April 2021 shows that the UN Strategic Development Goals (SDGs) have had limited transformative political impact on institutions and policies globally, with most of their influence being largely discursive, affecting global and national debates on sustainable development.

This new series of articles -“Why SDGs are Off-Track?….” that we are inaugurating with this paper-, seeks to delve into the different dimensions of SDG progress and setbacks. It will explore why the goals are struggling to make the intended impact and what can be done to steer the global agenda back on track. Through a factual and data-driven approach, each article in this series will shed light on specific challenges and opportunities within the SDG framework.

Introduction

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopted by the United Nations in 2015, represent a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity for all by 2030. These 17 interconnected goals aim to address a range of global challenges, including those related to environmental degradation, inequality, and sustainable economic growth.

However, the progress towards achieving these goals is alarmingly off-track. The “2030 Agenda Progress: Peril in the Premises” paper and “The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2023: Special Edition” reveal that the world is falling short in several areas. Critical issues such as climate action, gender equality, and global partnerships have seen limited progress. This is further compounded by the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and geopolitical conflicts.

Halfway to 2030: UN Strategic Development Goals in Peril

As we reach the midpoint of the ambitious timeline set for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the situation is dire. The world, now grappling with a multitude of crises including the climate crisis, armed conflicts, economic downturns, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, finds the progress of the SDGs in peril. The “Sustainable Development Goals Report 2023: Special Edition” rings a loud alarm, calling for an urgent and redoubled effort to put these goals back on track.

Reversal of Progress and Rising Poverty

The report paints a picture of a world at a critical juncture. The number of people living in extreme poverty has risen for the first time in a generation, reversing decades of progress. The ongoing pandemic has exacerbated inequalities, with key areas like childhood vaccination and income equality between countries regressing. Without a significant acceleration in efforts, an alarming 575 million people will remain in extreme poverty, and 84 million children will be out of school by 2030. Gender gaps in legal protection, discriminatory laws, and practices like child marriage are projected to persist for centuries at the current rate of progress.

Escalating Environmental Crisis

We are witnessing an escalating conflict with nature. Greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise unabated, pushing the global temperature towards the critical 1.5 °C threshold, which we are likely to reach by 2035. The frequency of extreme weather events like heat waves, droughts, floods, and wildfires is a stark reminder of the worsening climate crisis. Rising sea levels pose an imminent threat to millions in coastal communities.

The Disproportionate Impact of the UN Strategic Development Goals on the Vulnerable

The burden of these challenges falls disproportionately on the world’s poorest and most vulnerable populations, and developing countries are bearing the brunt. Their voices remain underrepresented in global governance and international financial institutions, highlighting a need for change in the global power dynamics.

Assessing Political Impact of the UN Strategic Development Goals

The political impact of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has been a subject of intense scrutiny, particularly as we are at the midpoint of the 2030 Agenda. The seminal article by Frank Biermann et al., provides crucial insights into this aspect. It suggests that while the SDGs have influenced policies and institutions at both the national and global levels, their transformative political impact has been limited. The findings indicate that the impact is more pronounced at the discursive level rather than in concrete political action or policy change.

The importance of political commitment and will in achieving the SDGs cannot be overstated. The goals, ambitious and far-reaching, require concerted effort and dedication from governments, institutions, and political leaders globally. Political commitment manifests in policy formulation, resource allocation, and implementation strategies that align with the SDGs. However, the lack of strong political will and commitment has been one of the significant barriers to the effective realization of these goals.

Relevant studies and evidence on political impact further corroborate Biermann et al.’s findings. They highlight a gap between the rhetorical endorsement of the SDGs and their actual integration into policy and governance frameworks. This gap is particularly evident in areas requiring significant political and economic transformations, such as climate action, inequality reduction, and sustainable economic growth.

Biermann et al. present a condensed evidence from an analysis of over 3,000 scientific studies on the Sustainable Development Goals published between 2016 and April 2021. The results show that while the SDGs have had a certain level of political impact, there is a clear need for more robust political commitment and action to ensure their successful implementation. The journey towards achieving the SDGs by 2030 will require not just policies and strategies aligned with these goals but also a strong political will to turn these plans into action.

Global Governance Challenges of the UN Strategic Development Goals

The role of global governance structures in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is pivotal yet fraught with challenges. These structures, ranging from the United Nations system to various international bodies and forums, play a crucial role in coordinating and implementing the SDGs at a global scale. However, the effectiveness of these systems in driving the SDGs has been subject to critical examination.

One significant limitation is the fragmented nature of global governance. There is a lack of cohesive and unified action among international organizations, leading to inefficiencies and redundancies in efforts to achieve the SDGs as reported by Frank Biermann et al.

Another area of concern is the lack of sizeable impact on political systems. The SDGs have not significantly transformed how global governance works in practical terms. Researchers, including Frank Biermann, argue that there needs to be major reforms within the United Nations and other international bodies to make the SDGs more impactful.

Improvements are required in aligning the goals with the policies and actions of international organizations. This includes better coordination among different bodies, more effective resource allocation, and a stronger emphasis on implementing policies that directly contribute to the SDGs. Moreover, global governance systems need to be more inclusive, ensuring that the voices of developing countries and marginalized communities are heard and represented effectively in decision-making processes.

In summary, while global governance structures are essential in advancing the SDGs, there are significant challenges that need to be addressed. Enhancing coordination, inclusivity, and practical impact are key areas for improvement to ensure the successful realization of the SDGs.

Regional Governance and the UN Strategic Development Goals

Regional governance bodies also play a crucial role in the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with their success varying significantly across different regions. These bodies, including regional alliances and intergovernmental organizations, are instrumental in translating global SDG objectives into regional and local contexts.

Successes in Regional Governance

Instances of success in regional governance for SDGs can be seen in areas where regional bodies have effectively aligned their policies and actions with SDG targets. This alignment often involves harmonizing regional development plans with SDG objectives, enhancing cooperation among member states, and mobilizing regional resources for sustainable development initiatives.

Challenges in Regional Governance of the UN Strategic Development Goals

However, regional governance also faces challenges in SDG implementation. These challenges include a lack of coordination among member states, insufficient funding, and sometimes a disconnect between regional objectives and local realities. Political commitment at the regional level can vary, affecting the overall effectiveness of SDG implementation.

Studies on Regional Governance

Research on regional governance and sustainable development highlights these successes and challenges. For instance, studies have assessed the political commitment to the SDGs in regions like Latin America, mapping progress and identifying areas for improvement. Additionally, research addressing the lack of analysis of country-level politics around the SDGs has provided insights into the political priorities of local elites in implementing these goals.

In conclusion, while regional governance bodies have a significant role in SDG implementation, their effectiveness is influenced by the level of political commitment, resource allocation, and the ability to bridge global goals with regional and local needs.

National Governance and the UN Strategic Development Goals

National governments play a critical role in integrating and implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This integration is essential for aligning national policies and strategies with the global SDG framework, ensuring that sustainable development is pursued at all levels of governance.

Integration of SDGs in National Policies

Many countries have taken significant steps to embed the SDGs into their national development plans. This integration often involves adapting the global goals to local contexts, setting national targets, and creating mechanisms for monitoring and reporting progress. For example, the United Nations has called upon all states to integrate the goals into their national sustainability and development plans, a process that has seen varying degrees of success.

Successful Models of National Governance of the UN Strategic Development Goals

There are notable cases where national governance models have effectively facilitated SDG implementation. These models typically feature strong institutional frameworks, clear policy directives, and robust engagement with stakeholders, including civil society and the private sector. The OECD highlights that governance is a critical accelerator for the SDGs, emphasizing the need for effective, inclusive, and accountable institutions.

Research on National Governance and SDGs

Research on national governance and the SDGs underscores the importance of aligning national strategies with the global goals. Studies have analyzed governance systems for the SDGs, examining how institutions and actors interact to address sustainable development challenges. Furthermore, the OECD’s SDGs Implementation Guiding Principles, including universality and inclusivity, provide a framework for national governments to enhance their SDG strategies.

While there is progress in integrating SDGs into national governance, the extent of implementation varies. Successful models demonstrate the potential for national strategies to effectively contribute to global sustainability goals, but there is still a need for greater commitment and alignment in many countries.

Sub-National Governance Dynamics of the UN Strategic Development Goals

The role of sub-national entities like states, provinces, and cities is increasingly recognized as critical in the progress towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These entities often serve as the primary implementers of the SDGs, translating global objectives into local actions and policies.

The Role in SDG Progress

Sub-national entities play a unique role in contextualizing SDGs to local realities. They are closer to the communities and thus can tailor the SDG implementation strategies to fit local needs and conditions. This localized approach is essential for effective and sustainable outcomes.

Examples of Initiatives and Impact

Various regions have undertaken significant efforts in adapting governance to deliver the SDGs effectively. For instance, in India, there has been a transformation in governance at both national and sub-national levels to align with SDG targets, demonstrating a commitment to localized implementation. Similarly, studies have shown how regional collaboration can facilitate cross-sectoral cooperation, making it easier to address complex challenges inherent in the SDGs.

United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) are at the forefront of SDG Localization. Since 2015, both large and small cities, along with regional authorities, have actively worked on incorporating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their local contexts. They utilize the global framework as a tool to plan and execute actions that are closer to the needs of the people they serve.

To advance SDG implementation, local and regional governments are increasingly conducting sub-national assessments known as voluntary local reviews (VLRs). Although VLRs do not possess official status within the formal process of monitoring and reviewing the 2030 Agenda, they hold significant potential for accelerating SDG progress. VLRs contribute to gathering and analyzing timely, precise, and detailed data; involving stakeholders closely in decision-making processes; strengthening governance at multiple levels; and promoting the integration of SDGs into local planning.

Research on Sub-National Governance

Research has highlighted the need for strong sub-national governance systems to achieve sustainable development. A study by Richa Kandpal and Mahesti Okitasari (2023) emphasizes the importance of governance transformation for localizing SDGs, suggesting that effective governance at sub-national levels is crucial for the overall success of SDG implementation. Additionally, the OECD discusses the challenges and opportunities in multilevel governance of SDGs, stressing the need for cohesive mechanisms that include sub-national entities.

The lack of the systematic integration of sub-national entities in SDG strategies and action plans explain, in part, our failure in achieving the global goals. Their role in adapting and implementing strategies that reflect local needs and conditions is vital for sustainable development.

The Need for a Theory of Change

Significance of a Theory of Change for SDG Achievement

A clear theory of change is crucial for the successful achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It serves as a roadmap, outlining the necessary steps and strategies required to attain the goals. Theories of change in sustainability science are instrumental in understanding how specific changes can lead towards sustainable development. They help in identifying key interventions, stakeholders, and resources needed, while providing a framework for measuring progress and impact.

Implications of Lacking a Robust Theory of Change for the UN Strategic Development Goals

Without a robust theory of change, efforts to achieve the SDGs may lack direction and coherence. This can result in fragmented initiatives, inefficient use of resources, and an inability to measure progress effectively. The absence of a well-defined theory of change can also lead to challenges in policy formulation and implementation, as seen in the context of SDG 3 (public health). It hinders the capacity to anticipate and mitigate potential obstacles, thereby reducing the overall effectiveness of sustainable development initiatives.

Research on SDGs’ ToC

Research underscores the importance of incorporating strong sustainability concepts into the theory of change for SDGs, emphasizing the need to focus on culture, good governance, and life support systems. Theories of change are also vital in evaluating sustainable development programs, with concepts of socioecological systems playing a critical role. Furthermore, systems theory implications for the SDGs highlight the interconnected nature of the goals and the necessity of an integrated approach in theory development.

In conclusion, developing and implementing a comprehensive theory of change is essential for the effective realization of the SDGs. Such a theory provides a strategic foundation, guiding sustainable development efforts towards impactful and measurable outcomes.

Embracing Innovation Systems

Role of Innovation in Advancing SDGs

Innovation plays a pivotal role in advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It drives the development of new technologies, processes, and ideas essential for tackling the complex challenges of sustainable development. Research underscores the importance of integrating sustainability variables within the framework of innovation systems, enabling a more holistic and effective approach to achieving SDGs.

Benefits of an Innovation Systems Approach

Adopting an innovation systems approach offers numerous benefits in addressing SDG challenges. This approach facilitates the collaboration between different stakeholders, including governments, academia, and the private sector, fostering a conducive environment for sustainable innovation. Studies have shown that innovation, particularly in its human and financial resources components, significantly impacts the fulfillment of SDGs, enhancing the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at sustainable development.

Research on Innovation Systems and Sustainability

Research in this field has been focused on understanding the dynamics of innovation systems in the context of sustainability. For instance, studies have explored the concept of “crossover from innovation to sustainable innovation,” emphasizing the need for science and technology to align with the co-benefits among SDGs. Additionally, there is an emphasis on developing national innovation systems that foster environmental sustainability through systemic changes.

Embracing innovation systems is, therefore, essential for effectively advancing the SDGs. This approach not only enhances the capacity for sustainable development but also ensures that innovation aligns with the broader objectives of environmental sustainability and social well-being.

Conclusion

The journey towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is a tapestry of interconnected challenges and innovative solutions. Our exploration across various dimensions – from political impact to innovation systems – reveals a complex yet hopeful landscape.

Key Findings and Insights from the studies presented: We’ve uncovered that while the SDGs have seen political impacts, these are mostly discursive and limited in transformative action. Global governance structures, although pivotal, show fragmentation and inefficiency. Regional governance varies in effectiveness, highlighting successes and challenges alike. National governments’ integration of SDGs into policies shows progress, but with room for improvement. Sub-national entities play a vital role in localizing SDGs, adapting them to community-specific needs. The significance of a robust theory of change and the potential of innovation systems stand out as critical levers for accelerating SDG achievement.

Complexity and Interconnectedness: The SDGs are not isolated goals but an intertwined set of objectives that require a holistic approach. Each goal impacts and is influenced by others, underscoring the need for innovation systems strategies that recognize their interconnected nature.

Preview of Upcoming Articles: Building on these insights, our upcoming series will delve deeper into each dimension. Expect thorough explorations into the nuances of political commitment, governance structures at various levels, and the critical role of innovation and systemic change in achieving the SDGs.

A Call for Comprehensive Approach: To surmount the SDG setbacks, a multidimensional approach is indispensable. It calls for integrated policies, enhanced cooperation across all levels of governance, and leveraging innovation for sustainable solutions. The SDGs are a blueprint for a more equitable, sustainable future. As we advance, let us recommit to these goals with renewed vigor and collaborative spirit, for the future we want and the planet we share.

In this grand endeavor, every action counts, every innovation matters, and every policy decision can make a difference. The path to 2030 is not just a journey of governments or institutions but of every global citizen. Let us stride forward with determination and hope, transforming challenges into opportunities for a sustainable tomorrow.

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Author

  • Abderrahim Merzak Ph.D.

    Dr. Merzak, Founding Chairman of the "Territorium Institute" in Ottawa-Ontario, is a visionary leader in innovation, technology transfer, and research for development (R4D). Transitioning from a research scientist, Dr. Merzak is championing the co-creation of territorial socio-technical innovation systems, empowering communities to meet the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement's Net-Zero targets. His group has pioneered online platforms promoting social learning and co-creation of sustainable roadmaps using community scenario planning. Dr. Merzak fervently believes in harnessing collective intelligence, tacit knowledge, and systems thinking to co-design brighter futures on various scales, from local communities to nations. His achievements include catalyzing international partnerships, founding the International e-Gov Forum in Dubai and the International Forum of Local Governments in Morocco, and promoting digital and sustainable projects globally. With managerial experience in a French biotech firm and advisory roles in biotechnology, Dr. Merzak has also orchestrated global B2B events in diverse sectors. Academically, he has served prestigious institutions like Paris-Saclay University and King’s College London. A recipient of numerous accolades, Dr. Merzak has contributed extensively to scientific literature and holds a Ph.D. in molecular and cellular biology of cancer from Paris-Diderot University, alongside other significant academic credentials.

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