Understanding the United Nations core values when looking into starting a UN career is key;

when applying for UNjobs, however also important to make yourself familiar with some of the UN initiatives, such as the Sustainable development goals (SDGs)

This article aims to give you an introduction and overview of the SDGs and their importance.

What are the SDGs

The SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), also known as the Global Goals, are 17 global goals set by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and as part of a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.

 These goals aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity for all, by addressing critical issues such as health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, and more.

The SDGs are an intergovernmental agenda and serve as a blueprint for global cooperation and action towards a sustainable future.

The 17 SDGs are recognize that action and or inaction in one area will affect outcomes in other areas, and that development must balance social, economic and environmental sustainability.

The 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) to transform our world:

• GOAL 1: No Poverty

• GOAL 2: Zero Hunger

• GOAL 3: Good Health and Well-being

• GOAL 4: Quality Education

• GOAL 5: Gender Equality

• GOAL 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

• GOAL 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

• GOAL 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

• GOAL 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

• GOAL 10: Reduced Inequality

• GOAL 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

• GOAL 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

• GOAL 13: Climate Action

• GOAL 14: Life Below Water

• GOAL 15: Life on Land

• GOAL 16: Peace and Justice Strong Institutions

• GOAL 17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal

What’s the difference between the MDGs and SDGs

The MDGs (Millennium Development Goals) and SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) are both development agendas adopted by the United Nations to improve the lives of people around the world. However, there are some key differences between the two:

·       The MDGs were established in 2000 with a target completion date of 2015, while the SDGs were adopted in 2015 and have a target completion date of 2030.

·       The MDGs focused on specific, time-bound targets for reducing poverty, improving health, and promoting gender equality and education, among other areas. The SDGs are more comprehensive and cover a broader range of sustainable development issues, including economic growth, social development, and environmental protection.

·       The MDGs adopted a more narrow, sectoral approach to development, whereas the SDGs take a more integrated and holistic approach, recognizing that sustainable development requires action in multiple interconnected areas.

·       The MDGs were primarily the responsibility of governments and international organizations, whereas the SDGs emphasize the role of all stakeholders, including governments, the private sector, civil society, and individuals.

Overall, the SDGs build upon the progress made under the MDGs, and aim to create a more sustainable, equitable, and inclusive world.

How can we promote sustainable development?

Sustainable development can be promoted in several ways:

·       Government action: Governments can play a key role in promoting sustainable development by creating enabling policies and regulations, investing in infrastructure, and promoting sustainable practices.

·       Private sector involvement: The private sector can invest in sustainable technologies, adopt sustainable business practices, and engage in corporate social responsibility initiatives 

·       Community engagement: Communities can be involved in sustainability efforts through education and awareness-raising, as well as participating in local initiatives and projects.

·       International cooperation: International cooperation can help to address global environmental and social challenges, and promote sustainable development through the sharing of knowledge and resources.

·       Responsible consumption and production: Consumers can promote sustainable development by reducing waste, conserving resources, and supporting sustainable and eco-friendly products.

·       Climate action: Addressing the challenge of climate change is central to promoting sustainable development. This requires reducing greenhouse gas emissions, adapting to the impacts of climate change, and investing in renewable energy and energy efficiency.

·       Innovation: Developing and applying new technologies and business models can help to drive sustainable development and promote economic growth that is both inclusive and environmentally sustainable.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Every positive action you take,, in and outside office hours, no matter how small, can make make a difference. Supporting your local community, a clean the beach campaign, switching to greener products, standing up for justice, and reminding your leaders of the promise of the Global Goals are all good places to start.

Will the SDGs be reached in 2030

Reaching the SDGs by the target date of 2030 will be a major challenge, and will require sustained effort and commitment from governments, businesses, and civil society. While significant progress has been made in some areas, there is still much work to be done to fully achieve the SDGs. Factors such as limited resources, political instability, economic inequality, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have all hindered progress.

However, it's important to note that the SDGs serve as a long-term vision for a better and more sustainable world, and that progress towards the goals is not binary. Even if the targets are not met by 2030, continued efforts to achieve them will still bring about positive change and improvement. The SDGs should be seen as a guide for action, and not as a deadline or a finish line.

Curious to learn more? Looking for ways to kickstart your international career? We share the best cover letter tips and structure for 2023! Learn how to craft a cover letter that stands out with UCCs 20 page Illustrated guide of cover letter tips

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