.png)
Why we do it
The 2030 Agenda, adopted by the UN Member States in 2015, is the most ambitious and important development agenda, the world has ever seen.
But half way to 2030, the world is not on track to reaching the Sustainable Development Goals. The Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine have resulted in a setback on all 17 SDGs. This represents a challenge, but also an opportunity.
The 2030 Agenda aims to ‘transform our world’ based on the principles of ‘leaving no one behind’ and ‘do no harm’.
If we utilize the toolbox provided by the 17 SDGs and their targets and indicators, we have a chance to emerge from the current crisis stronger and more resilient, on track to a world in harmony, where all people, everywhere, can lead a sustainable, productive and healthy life.
We are at a make-or-break moment for the SDGs. With the upcoming SDG Summit in 2023, there is a window of opportunity to renew our commitment to the 2030 Agenda and accellerate our common efforts to reach the SDGs.
In order to do this, we need political leadership.
Photo: Maiken Lyster Thonge
Too often, implementation of the 2030 Agenda is a government exercise alone, detached from the legislative bodies and from the democratic and civic space. Parliaments are rarely actively engaged in implementation, and there is a widespread lack of capacity, knowledge and tools to ensure a holistic and systematic approach to create transformative change.
At the same time, we are experiencing a legitimacy crisis. Close to 50 % of people do not trust their governments. There is a disconnect between people and their political leaders, a distrust in our democratic institutions.
This calls for a revitalization of parliaments as the link between the global and the local, between institutions and the people. We need parliaments that are ‘fit for purpose’ to deliver on the 2030 Agenda through concrete legislation, budget allocation, monitoring and oversight, accountability meassures, and to ensure civic space and protect human rights.
This represents an opportunity for elected legislators to revitalize their role as representatives. To re-connect with the people and demonstrate that they are capable to react to people’s needs through action and delivery, leaving no one behind.
Photo: Maria Hørmann