“Our goal is to make global SDG data accessible and understandable for everyone”

Later this month, UN DESA will be releasing the latest data tracking progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). What goes into the work of collecting, monitoring and analyzing the data and what can we expect the latest report to show? Ahead of the launch, we spoke with UN DESA’s Heather Page who explains.

What do you want readers to know about the work of tracking SDG progress around the world?

“Monitoring and reporting SDG progress is a massive global effort, requiring significant resources, expertise, and collaboration among governments, international organizations and other stakeholders. Despite challenges, countries are strengthening their SDG monitoring and providing data to custodian agencies on more and more SDG indicators as the years progress. Over 50 international and regional agencies then process and compile data and prepare analysis for the global SDG database and annual SDG reports. UN DESA’s Statistics Division plays a crucial role in coordinating the global SDG reporting process, compiling data and storylines on over 220 SDG indicators and disseminating them in a variety of ways in order to reach diverse audiences -- from data experts to the general public. Our goal is to make the global data and insights on SDGs accessible and understandable for everyone.”

What can we expect from the SDG Progress Report this year?

“The report will show that the clock has not stopped but we’re grappling with significant challenges to make substantial strides towards the SDGs. The world has faced severe headwinds since 2020 and the latest data and insights do not yet show the determined, sustained comeback that we need. It will detail areas with setbacks while also showcasing where tangible progress has been made, for instance, in reducing global child mortality, preventing HIV infection, and access to energy and mobile broadband. The report highlights where action must accelerate, particularly in critical areas undermining SDG progress - climate change, peace and security, inequalities among and between countries, among others.”

How can the report be used for developing recommendations or solutions to advance SDG progress?

“The annual SDG report serves as a foundational resource by providing the latest data and evidence for developing recommendations and solutions to advance progress towards the SDGs. It not only identifies gaps and challenges but also provides valuable insights into their causes and solutions. By offering a comprehensive assessment of our current standing, it enables the global community to prioritize areas for accelerated action and targeted policies. The report underscores the urgency of addressing stalled progress, particularly in developing countries and among vulnerable populations, and emphasizes the need for greater speed and scale in our efforts. Given the continued commitment of governments to the 2030 Agenda, we are still hopeful to achieve our shared goals.”

Stay tuned for more updates on the launch of the latest SDG Progress Report on this page:
Sustainable Development Goal indicators website