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Sustainable Development Goals in Asia: Progress, Challenges, and Necessary Reforms by 2030

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  • Mohamed Jaufer, Mohamed Aabidh

Abstract

This essay examines the extent to which the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be achieved in Asia by 2030 and honestly, it's a mixed bag. Through comprehensive analysis of regional data and case studies, this research demonstrates that while Asia has made significant strides in poverty reduction and economic development, substantial challenges remain in environmental sustainability, inequality reduction, and institutional capacity building. The analysis reveals that achieving the SDGs by 2030 requires transformative reforms in governance structures, financing mechanisms, technological innovation, and regional cooperation frameworks. Without accelerated action and systemic reforms, Asia will fall short of several critical SDG targets, particularly those related to climate action, sustainable consumption, and social equity. The findings suggest we're at a crossroads and the choices made in the next few years will determine whether billions of people see their lives improve or continue to struggle.

Suggested Citation

  • Mohamed Jaufer, Mohamed Aabidh, 2025. "Sustainable Development Goals in Asia: Progress, Challenges, and Necessary Reforms by 2030," MPRA Paper 130165, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:pra:mprapa:130165
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. United Nations UN, 2015. "Transforming our World: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," Working Papers id:7559, eSocialSciences.
    2. The World Bank, 2022. "Poverty and Shared Prosperity 2022: Correcting Course," Post-Print hal-05130118, HAL.
    3. World Bank, 2021. "World Bank East Asia and Pacific Economic Update, October 2021," World Bank Publications - Reports 36295, The World Bank Group.
    4. World Bank, 2021. "World Bank East Asia and Pacific Economic Update, April 2021," World Bank Publications - Reports 35272, The World Bank Group.
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • O16 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Financial Markets; Saving and Capital Investment; Corporate Finance and Governance
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes

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