The UN has warned that the world is not on track to achieve the SDGs by 2030. The goals were created in 2015 to improve our lives. They include ending poverty, improving education, reducing gender inequality, and tackling climate change. Only a third of the goals are on track. Wars, climate change, slow economic growth, and other global shocks are making progress difficult. The UN asked countries to increase their efforts in the run-up to 2030.

The UN did report signs of progress. One billion more people have access to drinking water. Internet connectivity has also greatly increased. However, serious challenges remain. There is a lack of progress on gender equality. The UN said: "At the current rate of progress, gender equality would take 171 years to achieve." An official said countries needed to invest more in infrastructure. The UN said the goals could still be achieved.