A robust follow-up and review mechanism for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development requires a solid framework of indicators and statistical data to monitor progress, inform policy and ensure accountability of all stakeholders. The global indicator framework was adopted by the General Assembly on July 6, 2017 and is contained in the Resolution adopted by the General Assembly on Work of the Statistical Commission pertaining to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (A/RES/71/313).

The global indicator framework was generated based on availability of existing data both globally and at national level, as well as the quality of that data and its relevance to specific targets. This led to the categorization of 231 indicators into 3 tiers, as described in the IAEG-SDGs Report to the Statistical Commission. The tier classification for many indicators changes as methodologies are developed and data availability increases. Therefore, the IAEG-SDGs reviews the tier classification as needed in bi-monthly web meetings as well as at its physical meetings (1st and 4th quarters annually).

  • Tier 1 indicators have an existing established methodology and data that are already widely available.

  • Tier 2 indicators have an existing established methodology; however, data are not easily available.

  • Tier 3 indicators do not yet have an internationally agreed methodology.

More information about the indicators, data, and the follow-up and review process can be found at the following links:

OPPORTUNITIES FOR PRIVATE SECTOR ENGAGEMENT

The private sector has the expertise, technology, and finances to partner with governments to facilitate a “data revolution” required to achieve the SDGs. The business community can:

  • Strengthen data analysis through capacity-building for developing countries and their private sectors

  • Promote corporate reporting as a means of monitoring, review and verification (MRV)

  • Build a more complete picture of collective progress on the 2030 Agenda

Aside from the official work at the UN, several other initiatives are seeking to align corporate reporting with the UN SDG indicator framework:

DATA CAPACITY INITIATIVES

Acknowledging the need for increased data capacity, many initiatives have been established to harness the expertise of government, business and civil society for improved timely and disaggregated data. The following are just the most visible of a large array of initiatives to help monitor progress and improve capacity on tracking the SDGs:

Understand. Be Inspired. Get Involved.