AMERICA - The United Nations High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development concluded its 2026 session on July 15 with the adoption of a ministerial declaration calling for “transformative, equitable, innovative and coordinated” action to accelerate implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The forum, held under the auspices of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), met at UN Headquarters from July 7 to 10 and July 13 to 15 under the theme of advancing sustainable development through coordinated action to secure a sustainable future for all.
The declaration, introduced by Albania, reviews global progress, challenges, and emerging trends affecting implementation of the SDGs. It also outlines priority actions aimed at speeding progress toward the 2030 targets amid mounting concerns that many goals remain off track.
Climate Language Removed After Vote
Before adopting the declaration, delegates approved an amendment proposed by Uruguay on behalf of the Group of 77 developing countries and China to remove a reference to the “United Arab Emirates Consensus,” the agreement adopted at the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference (COP28). The amendment was approved by a recorded vote of 82 in favor, 54 against, and 12 abstentions.
The decision drew criticism from several delegations. Ireland, speaking on behalf of the European Union, expressed disappointment, saying the language had previously been agreed by consensus and remained important for advancing Sustainable Development Goal 7 on affordable and clean energy.
The United Arab Emirates defended the reference, describing the UAE Consensus as an important international agreement. Colombia also opposed its removal, calling the agreement a milestone in global efforts to combat climate change and support the transition away from fossil fuels.
Countries Express Reservations
While the declaration was ultimately adopted by consensus, several countries registered reservations on specific sections.
Russia said the text placed excessive emphasis on human rights and gender issues and distanced itself from language relating to peace and security.
The European Union welcomed the declaration but said it fell short on gender-responsive implementation, climate-resilient infrastructure, and stakeholder participation.
Japan also joined the consensus while expressing concerns over references to common but differentiated responsibilities and international debt architecture. Other delegations, including Guatemala, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Iran, the United Kingdom, Paraguay, and the Holy See, also explained their positions following the adoption.
Leaders Call for Accelerated Action
Closing the session, Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development Navid Hanif warned that progress toward the SDGs remains insufficient.
Only 36 percent of the goals are currently on track to achieve moderate progress, he said, stressing that stronger political leadership, investment, and partnerships are needed.
“Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals is possible, but not automatic,” Hanif said. “The SDGs are not beyond reach, but they are beyond business as usual.”
Integrated Approaches Essential
ECOSOC President Lok Bahadur Thapa of Nepal said the forum underscored the need for integrated policies and stronger international cooperation, emphasizing that advancement on one goal often depends on progress across many others.
He highlighted discussions on clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, resilient infrastructure, sustainable cities, and global partnerships as examples of solutions that could be expanded and replicated.
Thapa said the forum’s discussions focused not only on accelerating implementation of the 2030 Agenda but also on improving the way countries work together to achieve sustainable development goals.
