Introduction

At the halfway point of the 15-year period to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the outlook is grim. Despite a period of notable progress in many of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the convergence of multiple crises, including climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, violent conflicts and economic shocks, is threatening to derail development and put further progress in peril for many countries (United Nations, 2023a, 2024). In recent years, progress in key areas of development, such as poverty alleviation, reduced inequalities, food security, health and social protection, has stagnated or reversed in many parts of the world (United Nations, 2023b).

Sustainable Development Goals:

No Poverty

Zero Hunger

Decent Work and Economic Growth