UN Warns Only 17% of SDG Targets Are Making Progress for 2030

According to the Sustainable Development Goals 2024-2025 Progress Report, approximately 17% of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are on track to meet the targets of the 2030 Agenda.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Progress Report reveals that progress toward meeting the targets has been fragile. and while some countries have made advancements, many face setbacks due to conflicts, climate change, and economic challenges.

Explore key findings from the report, highlighting where the world is succeeding, where it is falling behind, and what is expected for future global SDG progress.

Source: European Union

Water Pollution

Poverty Reduction

Access to Healthcare

Progress and Challenges in Ending Poverty and Hunger

The SDGs aim to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger by 2030 via Goal 1: No Poverty. After years of decline, global extreme poverty rates have stalled and even increased in some regions. Conflicts and economic shocks have pushed millions back into poverty, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia.

Food insecurity remains a major concern. According to a report by UNICEF, an estimated 673 million people faced hunger in 2024, 8.3 percent of the global population, with rising food prices and climate impacts worsening the situation. Malnutrition affects children’s growth and development, threatening future generations.

Countries that have invested in social protection programs and sustainable agriculture have seen better outcomes. For example, Ethiopia’s Productive Safety Net Program has helped millions avoid hunger during droughts. This shows targeted policies can make a difference even in difficult contexts.

Health and Well-being: Gains and Setbacks

Health is central to sustainable development. The report highlights:

• Life expectancy has improved globally but remains uneven. Infectious diseases like malaria and tuberculosis still claim many lives in low-income countries.

• Child mortality has declined but not fast enough to meet targets. Neonatal deaths remain a challenge.

• Access to healthcare is limited in many rural and conflict-affected areas.

• The COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in health systems and widened inequalities.

  
  

Innovations such as mobile health clinics and community health workers have improved access in remote areas. Expanding vaccination coverage and strengthening health infrastructure are urgent priorities.

Education: Bridging the Gap

Education is a powerful tool for development. The report finds:

• Enrollment rates in primary education have increased, but quality and completion rates lag behind.

• Girls and children from marginalized groups face barriers to education.

• The pandemic disrupted learning for millions, with many lacking access to remote education.

  
  

Countries like Bangladesh have made progress by focusing on inclusive policies and community engagement. Investing in teacher training and digital learning tools can help close gaps and prepare youth for future challenges.

Gender Equality: Progress with Persistent Barriers

Gender equality is essential for sustainable development. The report notes:

• More girls are attending school and women are participating in the workforce.

• Violence against women remains widespread.

• Women’s representation in leadership and decision-making roles is still low.

  
  

Legal reforms and awareness campaigns have helped reduce discrimination in some countries. Supporting women’s economic empowerment and protecting their rights must remain a priority.

Clean Water and Sanitation: Essential but Unequal Access

Access to clean water and sanitation is fundamental for health and dignity. The report shows:

• Progress in providing safe drinking water continues, but billions still lack access to safely managed water services.

• Sanitation coverage is improving but remains inadequate in many rural and urban slum areas.

• Water scarcity is increasing due to climate change and overuse.

  
  

Innovative solutions like solar-powered water pumps and community-led sanitation programs have proven effective in some regions. Sustainable water management is critical to meet growing demand.

Affordable and Clean Energy: Expanding Access

Energy access drives economic growth and improves quality of life. The report highlights:

• The number of people without electricity has decreased but remains high in sub-Saharan Africa.

• Renewable energy capacity is growing rapidly, especially solar and wind.

• Energy efficiency improvements are needed to reduce emissions and costs.

  
  

Countries investing in decentralized renewable energy systems, such as mini-grids, have expanded access in remote areas. Scaling up clean energy is vital to combat climate change and support development.

Economic Growth and Decent Work: Uneven Recovery

Sustained economic growth and decent work opportunities are key to reducing poverty. The report finds:

• Global economic growth slowed due to conflicts, inflation, and supply chain disruptions.

• Youth unemployment remains high, especially for young women.

• Informal employment is widespread, often without social protections.

  
  

Policies promoting job creation, skills training, and social safety nets have helped some countries recover faster. Supporting small businesses and green jobs can drive inclusive growth.

Climate Action: Urgent and Increasingly Complex

Climate change threatens all SDGs. The report warns:

• Global greenhouse gas emissions remain at record levels.

• Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and severe.

• Many countries are not on track to meet their climate commitments.

  
  

Adaptation efforts, such as building resilient infrastructure and protecting ecosystems, are expanding but need more funding. Accelerating the transition to low-carbon economies is critical to limit global warming.

Life Below Water and Life on Land: Protecting Biodiversity

Healthy ecosystems support livelihoods and well-being. The report shows:

• Marine biodiversity is declining due to overfishing, pollution, and habitat loss.

• Forest loss continues but at a slower rate in some regions.

• Protected areas have increased but coverage is uneven.

  
  

Community-based conservation and sustainable resource management have helped preserve biodiversity in places like Costa Rica and Madagascar. Strengthening global cooperation is essential to safeguard natural habitats.

Partnerships for the Goals: Collaboration is Key

Achieving the SDGs requires strong partnerships across governments, civil society, and the private sector. The report emphasizes:

• Financing gaps remain a major obstacle.

• Data collection and monitoring need improvement.

• Inclusive decision-making and local engagement boost effectiveness.

  
  

Innovative financing mechanisms, such as green bonds and blended finance, are gaining traction. Sharing knowledge and technology can accelerate progress worldwide.

Goal 1: End Poverty

Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Goal 13: Climate Action

Goal 14: Life Below Water