The UN Sustainable Development Goals were established by countries in 2015 at the United Nations, with roots tracing back to 2012. These goals aim to create a better world by 2030. Our project centered on Senegal, focusing on goals 4 (quality education) and 16 (peace, justice, and strong institutions).
Through our research and discussions with peers via podcasts, we found that international factors play a pivotal role in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This influence is particularly pronounced in countries within the Global South. When a country has some democratic principles, international support can significantly aid in achieving these goals. Conversely, countries governed by corrupt leaders or dictators might struggle to benefit from external assistance. However, the situation is not always straightforward.
Senegal has been regarded as a democratic role model in its region, but recent attempts by President Macky Sall to extend his tenure against constitutional regulations have raised concerns. The constitution does not allow for a third term, and the current president is fighting that. Nevertheless, Senegal, like any other developing country, has received funding from various UN agencies and international organizations, part of which has been directed towards sustainable development initiatives. This investment has led Senegal to make notable progress in achieving SDG 12 (responsible consumption & production) and SDG 13 (climate action). However, advancements in SDGs 1, 8, 9, 10, 16, and 17 have been moderate, indicating a mix of progress and challenges. Also, the remaining SDGs 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 14 remain as major challenges. Yet, Senegal’s progress is commendable, especially considering its context compared to neighboring undemocratic countries like its neighbor, Mali, which is led by putschist.
Another illuminating case is Group 11’s focus on Tunisia. Our peers highlighted Tunisia’s struggle with a debt crisis and a declining democratic system. Although for group eleven their SDG goal was eleven which is (sustainable cities and communities). They cautioned against reliance on the IMF, as further indebtedness could exacerbate the crisis. Instead, they proposed adopting pre-colonial architectural styles and ecological systems to stimulate the economy. This holistic approach aligns with SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth) and aims to reduce debt while prioritizing exports to foster a robust economy.
Our project and peer discussions underscored that different countries experience varying impacts from international factors in achieving these goals. Factors like mismanagement of resources, ineffective governance, global economic turmoil, and regional instability significantly influence a country’s success in meeting these objectives.
The contrasts in circumstances affecting countries became evident. While Senegal has shown progress despite challenges, Tunisia faces a multifaceted crisis. It emphasizes how different nations navigate the complexities of reaching sustainable development goals based on their unique contexts and external influences.
In summary, our project insights and peer discussions highlighted the substantial influence of international factors on a country’s ability to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The nuances of governance, economic stability, and global dynamics significantly shape a country’s progress toward these objectives. Each country’s unique situation demands tailored approaches and international support for realizing sustainable development aspirations.
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2 responses to “International Factors & Global South Progress Toward SDG.”
Thank you, Moustapha, for your post. It was interesting to read, and I agree with your point that autocratic states are likely to benefit less from outside help. This is because dictators tend to be power hungry, and so if they have access to more money or useful resources, they would utilize it for their own benefit and not the public’s. Because of this, I think it is necessary to ensure the aid provided is used correctly.
Do you agree with the idea that extending the term period allowed for a president to stay in office leads to a shift from democracy to autocracy?
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Thank you for sharing this! Your insightful post got me thinking about the fact that, as we studied in class, the conditions of some countries in the world also depend on those of their neighbors, so much that they often influence them. In the positive case of Senegal, however, the country was able to maintain its democratic identity in order to achieve SGDs.
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