New York: Leaders from across the globe will convene in New York next week for a crucial summit aimed at revitalizing the 2030 development goals, which were established in 2015 with the aim of improving global living conditions. Despite the ambitious goals, the world still faces persistent challenges such as hunger, poverty, and inequality.

Leaving No One Behind

The 2030 Agenda outlined 17 comprehensive development goals to be achieved by 2030, including eradicating extreme poverty and hunger, ensuring access to clean drinking water, promoting gender equality, and providing healthcare for all. The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) emphasized the need to thrive economically while preserving nature and ensuring that no one is left behind.

Warning Signs

In July, the UN released a report stating that the Sustainable Development Goals are in jeopardy. Progress has been slow, and in some areas, conditions have worsened since 2015. The COVID-19 pandemic has hindered efforts to combat extreme poverty, and it's projected that 575 million people will still live in extreme poverty by 2030, with many in sub-Saharan Africa. Hunger levels have risen to pre-2005 levels.

Urban Challenges and Climate Change

Over 1.1 billion people live in slum-like conditions in urban areas, while over two billion lack access to clean drinking water. Child mortality rates remain high, and the impacts of climate change are increasingly destructive.

Debt Struggles

Many countries are grappling with the burden of debt due to various global crises. Their ability to pursue development goals is limited, leading to a focus on economic recovery instead of sustainable growth. This path poses risks, including increased fossil fuel dependency and inequality.

International Financial Reform

The draft declaration to be discussed at the UN General Assembly emphasizes the need to reform international financial institutions, though the UN has limited control in this regard. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an additional $500 billion per year by 2030 to meet the goals.

A Comprehensive Approach

Addressing poverty, education, clean energy, healthcare, and peace requires a comprehensive strategy. Global warming and extreme weather events, linked to climate change, threaten many development goals. Addressing these challenges holistically can yield greater results and help alleviate poverty while tackling climate change.

Promoting Sustainable Growth

Efforts to modify the growth model include creating decent jobs, investing in sustainable cities with essential services, and ensuring affordable housing and infrastructure. These policies are essential for achieving poverty reduction and addressing climate change.

Leaders at the summit will strive to reaffirm their commitment to these vital goals and chart a path toward a more equitable and sustainable future.