The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted in September 2015 as a successor to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The SDGs list 17 goals and 169 targets, covering 2016 to 2030. Achieving these goals would reduce global poverty and inequality so that no one is left behind.
The COVID-19 pandemic however, presents a real obstacle to the realisation of the SDGs. The 2020 Sustainable Development Report estimates that the pandemic will exert impact, whether directly or indirectly, on all 17 goals, but will be most acute and drastic on Goals 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
The expertise, professionalism, and networks Good Neighbours has accumulated over the last 30 years on promoting integrated community development and humanitarian aid in developing countries has enabled the organisation to respond effectively and promptly to the pandemic situation.
Amid the UN-led international efforts in response to COVID-19, Good Neighbours quickly coordinated cooperation with international organisations, governments, businesses, and local organisations and individuals to secure and distribute personal protective equipment (masks, hygiene kits, testing kits, etc.) to minimise the virus spread amongst populations in developing countries and enhance local government capabilities to detect the virus. Furthermore, GN has been delivering food to community members whose livelihoods have been affected by the pandemic, and provides the tips necessary for the local community to help contain the virus. Good Neighbours has also restructured its income projects with a view to mitigating the financial blow of COVID-19 on local populations in developing countries and accelerating their socioeconomic recovery.
For more on the progress and achievements Good Neighbours has been making toward helping to realise the SDGs, please read the SDG Progress Report 2016-2020.
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