Reflecting on the Challenges and Opportunities for Implementing the SDGs: The SDSN Networks Chairs Meeting in New York

On September 18, 2025, the SDSN Networks Chairs, who make up the Networks Strategy Council, gathered in New York City and online ahead of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly. The meeting underscored the robust efforts and innovative solutions led by Networks globally to advance sustainable development, particularly in urban settings. It served as a vital opportunity for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and envisioning the future of sustainable development across the globe.

The fourth annual convening brought together 15 Network Chairs in New York and almost 40 Network Chairs online. The day-long session included regional sessions and presentations from sustainability leaders throughout Africa, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Middle East on topics including: Education for Sustainable Development, data collection for Voluntary National Reviews contributions, the backcasting methodology approach for SDG modelling, green campus programs, youth empowerment initiatives, SDSN Global Climate Hub reports, university-city nexus and partnerships, sustainable tourism, the Leave No One Behind principle, and COP 30.

Driving the SDGs to 2030 and Beyond

This year’s convening focused on Driving the SDGs to 2030 and Beyond. The high-level meeting explored how our global network can deepen collaboration with ambitious local actors—including the UN Local2030 Coalition, cities, and regions—to drive transformative action where it matters most. Network Chairs also engaged in discussions around how to shape the post-2030 narrative, advocating for the extension of the SDGs beyond 2030 with greater ambition, stronger commitments, and enhanced resources.

Geopolitics and the Impacts on SDG Progress

Maria Cortes-Puch, Vice President of the SDSN Networks Program, underscored that geopolitical tensions are having an adverse impact on the SDG achievement. She underscored that while global SDG progress remains off track, networks remain vital in advancing implementation-focused collaboration, supporting governments, and shaping long-term strategies. Universities, despite mounting pressures, continue to play an essential role in guiding sustainable development and informing policy.

Prof. Sachs, President of the SDSN, highlighted an uneven SDG global landscape and stressed that the pragmatic path forward is to retain the SDG framework with targeted modifications and a strong pivot to implementation. He also argued that SDG implementation requires actionable sectoral transition plans, paired with the capacity to address emerging conflicts and provide hands-on implementation expertise to governments and stakeholders. He emphasized the need for horizontal, cross-border cooperation and building regional capacity, including peer learning across regions with specialized expertise, so that proven practices can be adapted and scaled.

Roundtable Discussion at the United Nations Foundation

Harshani Dharmadasa, Senior Director Global Partnerships and Initiatives at the United Nations Foundation, hosted the Network Chairs at the Foundation’s New York office for an insightful and engaging conversation on shaping the post-2030 Agenda. The participating Network Chairs shared thoughtful perspectives from their regions and engaged in open, constructive dialogue.

SDSN Networks look forward to continuing to engage colleagues at the United Nations Foundation on meaningful intergenerational spaces and other collaborative exchanges around youth voices and initiatives in sustainable development.

Join SDSN in Advancing Global Sustainability

The SDSN is dedicated to mobilizing knowledge, resources, and partnerships to accelerate progress on the SDGs. Our 59 National and Regional Networks thrive through collaboration with universities, governments, businesses, and communities worldwide. As we enter the final five years of the 2030 Agenda, the SDSN’s Networks are playing a pivotal role in accelerating progress on the SDGs. If you are interested in partnering with us or supporting our work, we invite you to visit the Networks Program webpage.