This year’s Nikkei SDGs Forum shines a spotlight on a stark truth: the Sustainable Development Goals are in trouble.

On every front, our world faces deep challenges — from climate chaos and conflicts, to poverty, inequalities, mistrust and division. Progress towards the Goals has stalled, and in the case of poverty and hunger, reversed.

We count on partners like Nikkei, as part of the SDG Media Compact, to help get the message out that the SDGs need a rescue plan.

The discussions taking place during this Forum among governments, businesses, civil society and media alike can help accelerate progress in a number of key areas.

From ending poverty and hunger, to transforming education, to ending climate change and the destruction of our natural environment, to reforming the global financial system so developing countries can get the support they need to invest in their people, we need all hands on deck.

World leaders coming to New York this month to attend the important Summits around the SDGs, climate ambition, health and financing for development must arrive with credible plans to get the SDGs back on track, and invest in a better future for people and planet.

But we all have a role to play. As you meet for this important Forum, I am counting on your continued commitment to work as one to rescue the SDGs and leave future generations the sustainable legacy they deserve.

* *** *