The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) : a framework for intersectoral collaboration

Abstract

After several years of negotiation and collaboration, the United Nations Goals for Sustainable Development (SDGs) came into effect in January 2016. The 17 goals, which include issues such as ending poverty and hunger, reducing inequality, and a call for climate action, gender equity, quality education for all as well as health, housing, clean water and sanitation, provide a potential framework for participation and partnership. In force for the next 15 years, the goals are unlike any previous UN policy tool in that they are applicable to all member states and include public and private sectors as well as civil society. States will report against progress towards the goals, and the development of collaborations and partnerships to achieve them.

This paper examines the development of the goals and the implications and opportunities for practice in the social work profession, and draws on the author’s experience in India and Aotearoa New Zealand. In this paper the author argues that social workers’ experience with poverty and inequality can add a rich context and potential for leadership in an international effort for peace and social justice.