Why is it in the news?

• The Sustainable Development Report 2024 has been released by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN).

Key Findings of the Report

• Only 16% of the SDG targets globally are currently on track to be achieved by 2030.
• Goals such as SDG2 (Zero Hunger), SDG11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) are notably behind schedule.
• Progress towards SDGs varies significantly among countries, with Nordic countries leading, BRICS countries making substantial progress, and Poor & Vulnerable countries lagging.
• Finland holds the top spot, followed by Sweden and Denmark.
• India occupies the 109th position out of 166 countries, showcasing on-track performance in Poverty reduction and Quality Education targets but declining progress in Sustainable Cities and Climate Action targets.
• A new Index of Support to UN-based Multilateralism (UN-Mi), ranks countries based on their engagement with the UN System. Barbados is the top ranker, India stands at 139th place, and the USA is positioned last.

Recommendations by the UNSDSN

• The Sustainable Development agenda should continue as the cornerstone of global cooperation up to 2050 and receive adequate financing.
• Strengthening of UN agencies and systematic monitoring of UN-based multilateralism is imperative.
• Enhanced multilateral governance of technological risks and universal access to vital technologies and R&D capacities is crucial.
• Proposal to establish a UN Parliamentary Assembly and reform the UN Security Council by adding India as a permanent member and introducing processes to bypass a veto.