Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025

Ten years since world leaders embraced the transformative 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, we have not only the opportunity but the obligation to take stock of progress, acknowledge shortfalls and act with urgency and responsibility. Since 2015, millions have gained access to essential services. More than half the world’s population now benefits from some form of social protection, up by 10 percentage points compared to a decade ago. Child marriage and maternal and child mortality rates have fallen, and more young people, especially girls, complete school.

 Women now hold 27 per cent of parliamentary seats worldwide, up from 22 per cent. Access to electricity and clean cooking has expanded. Internet connectivity has increased by 70 per cent, opening new horizons. Around the world, young people, communities, civil society and local leaders are stepping up their action to deliver on the promise of the SDGs. Despite these important gains, conflicts, climate chaos, geopolitical tensions and economic shocks continue to obstruct progress at the pace and scale needed to meet the 2030 target. 

This year’s Sustainable Development Goals Report finds that only 35 per cent of SDG targets are on track or making moderate progress. Nearly half are moving too slowly and, alarmingly, 18 per cent are in reverse. We face a global development emergency.