ISLAMABAD: The Asia-Pacific region is on track to miss 103 out of 117 measurable Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targets by 2030 if current trends persist, according to the latest regional assessment.
The findings were revealed in the Asia and the Pacific SDG Progress Report 2026, released by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). The report paints a picture of uneven and imbalanced development across the region.
While progress has been made over past decades in areas such as health, well-being and poverty reduction, these gains are being overshadowed by accelerating environmental degradation and widening socio-economic inequalities. The report highlights setbacks in equal access to education and compliance with labour rights, raising concerns about inclusive growth.
Data gaps in key areas — including gender equality, peace, justice and strong institutions — are limiting policymakers’ ability to accurately assess how effectively vulnerable populations are being supported.
In environmental sectors, the outlook is particularly alarming. The report notes rapid deterioration in climate action efforts, marine conservation and biodiversity protection. Urban areas are also experiencing regression, with damage to critical infrastructure exposing a growing disconnect between development planning and on-ground resilience.
Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ESCAP, warned that the very drivers of economic growth that once lifted millions out of poverty are now threatening long-term sustainability.
“Our collective challenge is also our greatest opportunity — to build a region that is not only wealthier, but smarter and healthier,” she said, urging governments to accelerate transformative action to meet the 2030 targets.
The report calls for urgent policy shifts, stronger data systems and coordinated regional efforts to reverse negative trends and realign development pathways with sustainability goals.
Story by Amin Ahmed
