An assessment of the prospects for the SDGs
UN member states on September 25 ratified a new set of global benchmarks, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), following the expiry of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) this year. The 17 new goals, with 114 outcome targets, have already drawn criticism for being overly ambitious and lacking direction.
The UN's Paris Climate Talks (COP21) later this year will be heavily influenced by the number of climate goals set out in the new SDGs.
NGOs will alter policies to align with the SDG agenda, soliciting funds to broaden programmes beyond the MDG-focus of the last 15 years.
Governments and NGOs will increasingly ask international businesses and financial institutions to collaborate on achieving the SDGs.
