The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a call to action by all countries – poor, rich and middle-income – to promote prosperity while protecting the planet. They recognize that ending poverty must go hand-in-hand with strategies that build economic growth and address a range of social needs including education, health, social protection, and job opportunities, while tackling climate change and environmental protection.
The (SDGs) were formulated in 2015 by the United National General Assembly (UNGA) as a part of the Post-2015 Development Agenda, which sought to create a future global development framework to succeed the Millennium Development Goals.
Two years later, the SDGs were made more “actionable” by a UNGA resolution that identifies specific targets for each goal and provides indicators to measure progress. Most targets are to be achieved by 2030, although some have no end date.
Our advocacy priority at the UN, as Daughters of Charity and NGO representatives, centers on promoting the dignity and rights of those living in poverty and on the margins, consistent with the Vincentian charism. This overarching priority often includes the following interlinked focus areas:
- Ending Poverty in All Its Forms (SDG 1) – Advocating for structural changes that address the root causes of poverty and promote equitable access to resources.
- Migration and Human Mobility – Supporting safe, orderly, and dignified migration, especially for those forced to flee due to conflict, climate change, or economic desperation.
- Climate Justice and Care for Creation (SDG 13) – Addressing ecological degradation, especially its impact on the poor, and promoting sustainable practices.
- Access to Quality Education and Health Care (SDGs 3 & 4) – Ensuring inclusive, equitable services, especially for girls, women, and vulnerable communities.
- Empowerment of Women and Girls (SDG 5) – Promoting gender equality and challenging systems that perpetuate violence and exclusion.
- Decent work and economic growth. A key target calling for action against trafficking in the context of labor rights and economic exploitation. Eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking.
- Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (SDG 16) – Encouraging transparent governance, conflict resolution, and the inclusion of marginalized voices in decision-making.