According to the United Nations SDG report, with just 6 years remaining, current progress falls far short of what is required to meet the SDGs. Without massive investment and scaled up action, the achievement of the SDGs — the blueprint for a more resilient and prosperous world and the roadmap out of current global crises — will remain elusive. The lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, escalating conflicts, geopolitical tensions and growing climate chaos have severely hindered progress.

Under SDG5 gender equality, it reports a lag in progress. Harmful practices are decreasing but not at a rate keeping up with population growth: 1 in 5 girls still marry before 18; 230 million girls and women have been subjected to female genital mutilation; and violence against women persists, disproportionately affecting those with disabilities. Parity in women’s participation in public life remains elusive, and parity in management positions will require another 176 years. Women carry an unfair burden of unpaid domestic and care work, spending 2.5 times more hours a day on it than men.

The report details the urgent priorities and areas needed for stronger and more effective action to ensure the 2030 promise to end poverty, protect the planet and leave no one behind.  It showcases where tangible progress has been made and highlights where action must accelerate, particularly in critical areas undermining SDG progress - climate change, peace and security, and inequalities among and between countries.