There are less than eight years to go until 2030, the target date to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda. However, the already difficult path towards their achievement has been hindered even more due to the devastating consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic and the war against Ukraine. Now, even the small progresses that have been made are being reversed.

The European Parliament’s report on the ‘Implementation and delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals’ stresses the need for swift joint action and calls on the Commission to incorporate and implement the SDGs horizontally throughout all EU policies.

Shadow rapporteur for the development committee and S&D coordinator, Udo Bullmann MEP, said:

“Time is running out. Millions of people are suffering from famine in the global south as a direct consequence of Putin’s war against Ukraine, whilst many nations are still facing the dire consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic. If we want to succeed in implementing the SDGs by 2030, we have to work even harder. And, let’s be clear: There is no alternative other than to succeed.

“If anything, the ongoing crises demand even more focus on fighting inequalities and poverty to empower our partner countries to set themselves on the path to sustainable development and build resilient, equal and just societies. We cannot fail our commitment of leaving no one behind. Otherwise, we would fail humanity and our EU values for a fair, inclusive and sustainable world.  

“In order to do so, the EU has to massively strengthen its commitment on the international stage. We need a comprehensive strategy, encompassing both internal and external policies taking into consideration the new geopolitical realities. It is of the highest importance now that we build back better together in a true partnership.”

Shadow rapporteur for the environment committee, Rovana Plumb MEP, commented:

“It is urgent that we increase the momentum to implement the SDGs. In light of geopolitical, environmental, health and humanitarian crises, we need to apply a holistic approach to the SDGs and ensure a socially inclusive, fair and just transition.

“The social, environmental, climate and demographic priorities set by the SDGs and the European Pillar of Social Rights need to be fully implemented.  Measures taken to protect the environment, climate and security need to be carried out with a comprehensive mapping of the financial envelopes of EU policies, with the allocation of adequate resources to create a greener, more digital and more resilient Europe.

“In this regard, we further need to introduce Beyond-GDP indicators, reform the European Semester and ensure a broader involvement of stakeholders.”