The Deputy Secretary-General's Message on the SDG “Rubber Meets the Road” video ahead of the SDG Summit

Seven years ago, 193 world leaders committed to a better future for people and planet, through greener solutions and more equal societies. 

Today, at the halfway point of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the world is not on track to fulfill that promise. 

 We face immense challenges. Climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss threaten lives and livelihoods, topped by crises and governance challenges in too many regions.

But failing is not an option. There is too much at stake. World leaders must live up to their commitments. Everyone, everywhere, can play their part. 

 I have witnessed how strengthened UN country teams under revamped Resident Coordinator leadership are making a difference on the ground.

1

They are making the most of the UN’s offer to boost action by local and national Governments, convene stakeholders, and invest in transformative solutions for sustainable development.  

There is hope. We are only heading to the second half now. 

We will need to focus on key transitions that address climate change, biodiversity and pollution, energy access and affordability, food systems, jobs and social protection, education, and digital connectivity.

And the world needs to massively scale up long-term development finance. 

In this second half, it’s all hands on deck so we can win this – for people and planet.