Key findings

EU progress towards the SDGs

Over the short-term period, the EU has made significant progress towards five SDGs: ‘Decent work and economic growth’ (SDG 8), ‘Responsible consumption and production’ (SDG 12), ‘Reduced inequalities’ (SDG 10), ‘Gender equality’ (SDG 5) and ‘Quality education’ (SDG 4). The EU has also progressed towards nine other SDGs, but at a moderate pace. Among these goals, the EU has performed best for ‘Industry, innovation and infrastructure’ (SDG 9) and ‘Zero hunger’ (SDG 2). By contrast, no progress was observed for ‘Partnerships for the goals’ (SDG 17). Moreover, the EU has moved away from the sustainable development objectives of ’Life on land’ (SDG 15) and ’Clean water and sanitation’ (SDG 6) due to biodiversity loss, water scarcity and deteriorating water quality. In summary, the EU has made progress towards most SDGs, at varying paces and despite remaining challenges, while it has stagnated on SDG 17 and fallen back on SDG 6 and SDG 15.

To get a quick overview of the progress of each SDG, please see the SDG EU progress tracker.