They were established by the United Nations in 2015 as part of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, through which countries of the world collectively pledged to eradicate poverty, find sustainable and inclusive development solutions, ensure everyone’s human rights, and generally make sure that no one is left behind by 2030.
This serves a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that all people can enjoy peace and prosperity.
The 17 SDGs are:
1. No poverty
2. Zero hunger
3. Good health and well-being
4. Quality education
5. Gender equality
6. Clean water and sanitation
7. Affordable and clean energy
8. Decent work and economic growth
9. Industry, innovation and infrastructure
10. Reduced inequalities
11. Sustainable cities and communities
12. Responsible consumption and production
13. Climate action
14. Life below water
15. Life on land
16. Peace, justice, and strong institutions
17. Partnerships for the goals.
The Sustainable Development Goals are the blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.
They address the global challenges we face, including those related to poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice.
These 17 Goals are all interconnected —they recognize that action in one area will affect outcomes in others, and that development must balance social, economic and environmental sustainability.
The SDGs are also designed to end hunger, AIDS, and discrimination against women and girls.
Creativity, knowhow, technology and financial resources from every part of society is necessary to achieve the SDGs in every context.
Countries have committed to prioritize progress for those who are furthest behind.
The European Union (EU) and its Member States are the leading donors of official development assistance (ODA) globally and through its international partnerships, the EU pursues progress towards the relevant SDGs together with its priorities - from design to implementation and reporting.