The World Economic Forum’s Sustainable Development Impact Meetings 2023 (SDIM23) took place in New York from September 18 to 22, gathering over 1,000 leaders from politics, business, and civil society. Their primary mission was to accelerate progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, despite the commitment, only 15% of the 17 SDGs are on track, with many regressing.
Five major themes emerged from the SDIM23:
Addressing the Financing Gap
Leaders highlighted the need to boost financing for sustainable development, especially in emerging markets. The UN Secretary-General highlighted the SDG financing gap estimated at $3.9 trillion annually, with developing countries facing high borrowing costs.
Building Partnerships and Collaboration
Collaboration between governments, businesses, and civil society was emphasized as crucial for achieving the SDGs. Innovative partnerships were seen as a way to address challenges like the green energy transition and food sustainability.
Localizing Solutions
Local efforts are essential for SDG success, with a focus on implementing 65% of targets at the local level. Public and private sector cooperation, as seen in Egypt’s Haya Karima initiative, plays a vital role in achieving these goals.
Leveraging Digital Transformation
Digital transformation was identified as a catalyst for global economic growth. Access to the internet in low- and middle-income economies was highlighted as a priority, with potential benefits in education, health, and zero-carbon technologies.
Accelerating the Use of Technology for Good
Technology, including AI, was recognized as a key ally in achieving the SDGs. It can help support natural ecosystems and accelerate solutions when managed appropriately.
In a world characterized by fragmentation, leaders stressed the importance of transitioning to a rules-based global order to effectively address these challenges. These insights from SDIM23 underscore the urgent need for action to meet the 2030 deadline for the SDGs.
