Governments are reporting the highest levels of satisfaction with UN development support since reforms of the development system began nearly a decade ago. But continued progress will depend on sustained political engagement and more predictable financing.
At the 2026 ECOSOC Operational Activities for Development Segment, the UN Secretary-General highlighted key findings from the UNSDG Chair Report, including progress made due to reforms in the UN development system and four areas where action is essential.
Displaced and host community farmers in Dohuk are experiencing a financial boon after a UN-backed hub connected them to formal retail supply chains, strengthened quality standards and supported lasting relationships with suppliers.
As women across Moldova continue to face barriers in balancing work and family, the Government is collaborating with the UN and partners to invest in expanded childcare, support family-friendly workplace policies and create flexible solutions for parents.
With UN support, a family-owned olive oil business in Albania sharpened its competitiveness, capacities and business expansion opportunities while still remaining committed to sustainable practices, proving that economic growth and sustainability go hand-in-hand.
Nestled in the Ring of Fire, Tonga is the world's second most at-risk country to natural hazards. Under the leadership of the Resident Coordinator, the UN is working with partners to chart a future for the island that is not only resilient, but also sustainable.
The UN-supported Global Accelerator is working toward Namibia's goal of creating 500,000 jobs by coordinating and expanding successful programmes, promoting clearer accountability for results and supporting small businesses.
At the Plenary Meeting of the General Assembly, the Secretary-General outlines how GDP, while important, fails to capture the progression and regression of indicators vital to sustainable development, such as human and planetary well-being.
With an energy system facing longstanding challenges, the Philippines and the UN are working together both nationally and in local communities to implement clean energy solutions, improve efficiency, strengthen resilience and ensure an inclusive green transition.
With support from the Joint SDG Fund, the UN and partners, a home-grown school feeding initiative in Kenya's Embu County links farmers to schools via cooperatives, turning harvests into meals that fuel economic growth and improve students' nutrition and retention.
