In a stride towards sustainable development, the Youth-Led Voluntary National Review Program successfully concluded in all seven provinces of Nepal. Organized by Youth Initiative and the National Youth Council, in collaboration with Youth Advocacy Nepal, Nepal Development Initiative, Sustainable Development Forum, and various youth organizations, the program brought together diverse stakeholders to evaluate and discuss Nepal’s progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The SDGs, adopted by 193 countries on 15 Sep 2015, outline 17 global goals to be achieved by 2030, focusing on critical areas such as poverty eradication, hunger elimination, climate action, peace, justice, and partnership for goal implementation. These goals are supported by 169 targets and 232 indicators globally, with Nepal having identified 479 specific indicators for its national context.

This year, Nepal prepares to submit a comprehensive report to the United Nations Assembly, spotlighting its progress and challenges in meeting SDGs, particularly focusing on Goals 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), 13 (Climate Action), 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

The program, held on May 4, utilized both physical and digital (virtual) platforms to facilitate widespread participation. It saw active involvement from youth organizations, provincial and local government representatives, youth councils, politicians, international donor agencies, the Federation of Non-Governmental Organizations, and the National Planning Commission.

Through this initiative, the youth underscored the importance of sustainable development as an integrated approach to address social, economic, and environmental challenges. Discussions highlighted key challenges such as limited resource access, lack of decision-making power, and the need for inclusive governance. Nonetheless, the youth participants recognized the SDGs as a potent catalyst for positive change, envisioning a just and equitable society.