As of December 2025, Pakistan’s progress on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) remains off-track, with the country ranking 140th in the Sustainable Development Report 2025, reflecting persistent challenges in the final stretch toward the 2030 Agenda.
Achievements include macroeconomic stabilisation in 2024-2025, with inflation at a six-year low, expanded electricity access and modest gains in health indicators like reduced maternal mortality. Digital transformation and partnerships show promise in areas like decent work and infrastructure.
However, failures are stark: Pakistan is on track for only about 35% of targets, with eight SDGs stagnating and three regressing, particularly in zero hunger, gender equality, climate action and life on land. High debt, political instability, climate vulnerabilities, data gaps and a massive annual financing shortfall of around $60 billion hinder progress. Poverty, inequality and environmental degradation continue unabated.
With just five years left, Pakistan must prioritise innovative financing and anti-corruption measures, enhance public-private partnerships, invest heavily in climate resilience and improve data monitoring. Global solidarity is also crucial to rescue the SDGs and ensure inclusive prosperity.
Aamir Khan Wagan
Larkana
