Attachments
Introduction
Policies for the Sustainable Development Goals in the Arab region: emerging trends and structural challenges
The 2024 edition of the Arab Sustainable Development Report (ASDR 2024) focuses on policies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Arab region. The report maps policy trends related to SDG implementation at the regional level and in relevant groupings of countries: Gulf Cooperation Council countries, middle-income countries, least developed countries and countries experiencing conflict and fragility. Building on the knowledge and analysis of 18 United Nations entities working in the region, ASDR 2024 supports this mapping of trends with reference to national policy examples related to the 17 SDGs in the 22 Arab States. It points to policy gaps and contextualizes the trends within structural and emerging development challenges and priorities in relation to regional SDG data.
For the purpose of this report, there is no clear-cut definition of the term “policy”. In practical terms, a policy trend reflects the approach Governments take to achieve (national) priorities. Their efforts include national and sectoral strategies, initiatives, programmes, legislation, engagement with global and regional frameworks, and the establishment of financing and institutional mechanisms to facilitate implementation. ASDR 2024 adopts this wider designation in its use of the terms “policy” and “policy trends”.
The analysis of policy directions in the 17 chapters that follow highlights promising elements, robust policies and policy gaps. It identifies areas where integrated policies that address the different dimensions of sustainable development remain lacking. It links those policy directions wherever possible to the financing landscape and policies to leave no one behind, as well as regional dimensions for cooperation and multilateral action. By doing so, ASDR 2024:
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Provides a better understanding of SDG progress in the region in relation to policies undertaken;
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Helps policymakers identify policy approaches adopted by Arab Governments facing similar challenges;
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Identifies opportunities for the acceleration of SDG implementation through the adoption of more integrated policies and the promotion of regional cooperation and action.