The world is far off track to meet the SDGs, with declining aid, rising debt burdens, and a global financial system that often works against the countries that need it most. The recent Seville conference offers a chance to reset – producing a new global commitment and a platform for action to reform how development is financed
The ocean is not just a victim of environmental decline – it is a foundation of global development. From climate resilience to food security to poverty reduction, ocean health now stands as a critical barometer of our capacity to achieve the SDGs
Social protection is a powerful – but underused – lever for gender equality and sustainable development. To get the SDGs back on track and close widening global gaps, governments must invest in inclusive systems that support women’s rights and needs at every stage of life
Europe, Global
Trade has the power to drive sustainable development – but only if the global system is fair. As rising tariffs and unequal rules threaten progress, countries must seize the chance to reimagine trade in support of people and planet
Digital innovation can drive progress toward the SDGs – yet the countries that stand to gain the most often face the highest barriers to adoption. We need a more inclusive model of technology transfer to close, not widen, the global development gap
As global power becomes more diffuse and traditional institutions lose traction, the G20 stands out as a forum with the potential to reconnect a divided international system. Its success will depend on whether member states can find common cause – and act decisively when others won’t
Europe
Indirect lobbying of governments and institutions by industry associations remains an important way for companies to sabotage climate progress, and it’s flying under the radar. We need more responsible firms and governments to call out and curb these hidden and harmful practices before it’s too late
As developed economies deploy powerful incentives to boost low-carbon industries, critics argue they’re creating structural barriers for developing countries, hindering their ability to participate in and benefit from the global shift to clean energy. How can we balance climate investment and trade to promote a rapid, just transition for all nations?
Finance that will deliver on climate action and the SDGs requires a coordinated approach among governments, regulators, rating agencies, exchanges, asset managers, and investors. Many encouraging initiatives are already underway – now, we must build on this momentum to create a financial ecosystem where every investment supports both economic growth and environmental preservation
Emissions trading systems played a pivotal role in combating acid rain in the 1990s, but their rollout for greenhouse gases has been comparatively slow. What’s holding them back, and what will it take for these systems to help win the fight against climate change?
