We are pleased to launch the 21st issue of the SDGs Digest, edited and published by the SDGs Community of Practice (CoP) in the IsDB Group.

The theme of this edition is “Diversifying Economies and Enriching Lives”, reflecting the focus of this year’s IsDB Annual Meetings. The current edition presents a collection of thoughtful articles on the Sustainable Development Goals. In his cover story, H.E. Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, Chairman of the Islamic Development Bank Group, highlights the enduring partnership between Algeria and the Islamic Development Bank. The story presents several examples showcasing the collaborative efforts between the two sides over the past 50 years that cultivated a strong and trustworthy cooperation.

This edition further reveals that there is meaningful progress in achieving SDGs around the globe, including IsDB Member Countries. Yet, the critical financial gaps still exist that hinder achieving various specific SDG targets. More specifically, our contributors highlight that member countries require an estimated additional 15-20% of GDP in annual investments to meet the 2030 targets. In other words, due to insufficient investment in SDG-related sectors still millions of people continue to suffer, and this calls for a paradigm shift towards a more collaborative one, particularly at the international and regional level.

The 21st issue of the SDGs Digest presents various perspectives provided by high-level dignitaries, senior experts and IsDB staff from various hubs and departments that showcase the efforts exerted and projects completed over the past years, such as across health, transport, and agriculture sectors towards achieving SDGs pay off and commendable progress have been recorded. Many people lifted themselves out of poverty and reached better living standards. Now, it is time to exert more concerted efforts at the global level and make it more transformative together!

We encourage you to delve into the rich content of this edition and share your feedback at sdgscop@isdb.org.

You can access the digital version here