Global Inequality Is Slowing Progress Toward the SDGs

Human rights bodies have indicated that increased inequalities in the world are among the major obstacles to attaining the SDGs. Although technological innovation and economic expansion have come with benefits for some people, most people do not have access to basic social services such as health, education, clean water, and decent jobs.

The analysis highlights how inequality can be not only economic but can exist in a political and social manner. Marginalized people will have less power over policies which impact them. Climate change will further widen this gap because marginalized people are most affected by it.

Unless proactive steps are made towards redistributions of resources, scaling up social protection, and enhancing human rights, achieving SDG targets will likely benefit more affluent countries and communities. Reducing inequalities, therefore, is not a choice but a basis for sustainable development.

SDG Impact: The article is closely related to goal SDG-10: Reduced Inequalities and explains how inequalities impact negatively the achievement of SDG-1: No Poverty, SDG-3: Good Health and Well-being, and SDG-16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.