New development agenda a generational challenge for world's parliaments

Geneva, 25 September 2015

Safeguarding our planet is as much a priority in the SDGs as the well-being of its people. ©Reuters/A. Biraj

The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) IPU has welcomed the adoption of a new sustainable development agenda for the world as a turning point in efforts to shape our future and commits to doing its utmost to help achieve success.

A set of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) formally adopted at a UN Summit at its Headquarters in New York (25-27 September), are ground-breaking commitments to eradicate extreme hunger and poverty within 15 years, reduce inequalities and secure both prosperity and the planet for future generations.

A related declaration setting out how this will be achieved is also the first major UN agreement to acknowledge the importance of governance in ensuring successful implementation. It highlights the essential role of parliaments in translating the goals into action, through legislation, resource allocation and oversight of government action.

Goal 16 on peace, justice and the building of effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels is particularly apt as parliaments will work alongside governments, civil society, the private sector, the UN, and other international entities  to help ensure the targets for the 17 SDGs are met by 2030.

“Goal 16 is the powerhouse from which all other action will flow. We believe its effective implementation will underpin the success of all other SDGs. It’s why we have renewed our commitment to helping parliaments rise to the challenge of translating ambitious targets into practical action,” said IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong.

Other goals that cover issues such as health, inequalities, climate change, sustainable consumption and production patterns also reflect IPU’s work to strengthen peace, human rights, justice and democracy around the world.  Goal 5 on gender equality is a particular focus of the Organization, which is committed to helping parliaments achieve equality within the institution and in the countries they serve.

IPU will also forge ahead on work to engage young people in politics and parliament, making the institution more open and accessible to the people, and a more effective mechanism for oversight of government.

“The SDGs are a generational challenge for parliaments and parliamentarians everywhere to help deliver real and lasting change to people’s lives. Meeting this challenge will be our legacy as parliamentarians to future generations,” said IPU President Saber Chowdhury.