Towards a better world

The socioeconomic and environmental cost of the preoccupation with economic growth in Asia and the Pacific is becoming increasingly evident. Repairing and reversing the damage will require addressing high levels of inequality in wealth and opportunities, the snail-paced progress on climate change and biodiversity goals, alongside declining life satisfaction and well-being. The forthcoming ESCAP SDG Progress Report for Asia and the Pacific will show that progress on the 17 Goals is mixed at best, and a business-as-usual approach will not help the region achieve the goals laid out in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In other words, Asia and the Pacific needs a change in mindset and economic philosophy to set the region on track. It is time for policymakers to put “people and the planet first”.

Sustainable Development Goals:

No Poverty

Zero Hunger

Reduced Inequalities