SDG 1: No Poverty

The First Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 1) of the 2030 Agenda aims to "End poverty in all its forms everywhere." This goal is pivotal as eradicating poverty is essential for achieving sustainable development globally. SDG 1 targets the complete eradication of extreme poverty, which is currently defined as living on less than $1.90 a day and seeks to reduce by half the proportion of all people living in poverty by 2030. 

Building inclusive social safety nets and economic empowerment

SDG 1 emphasizes the implementation of nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures, including social protection floors, to achieve substantial coverage of the poor and the vulnerable by 2030. The goal also calls for equal rights to economic resources, access to basic services, ownership, and control over land and other forms of property, inheritance, natural resources, appropriate new technology, and financial services, including microfinance. 

Strengthening communities and fighting poverty together

To tackle poverty effectively, the goal also aims to build the resilience of the poor and those in vulnerable situations, reducing their exposure and vulnerability to climate-related extreme events and other economic, social, and environmental shocks and disasters. This holistic approach acknowledges that poverty is a multifaceted issue influenced by various factors, including economic instability, social inequality, and environmental degradation. 

The commitment to ending poverty was reinforced at the Millennium Summit in 2000, where 189 countries pledged to spare no effort to free people from extreme poverty. This led to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which lifted over a billion people out of extreme poverty and made significant strides in hunger reduction, education, and health. However, despite these achievements, poverty remains a persistent challenge, necessitating renewed efforts under the 2030 Agenda. 

Eradicating poverty is not only a moral imperative but also a practical necessity for sustainable development. By addressing the root causes of poverty and implementing targeted measures, SDG 1 aims to create a world where everyone can lead a life of dignity and opportunity. This goal underscores the global commitment to leaving no one behind and ensuring that all people can enjoy the benefits of sustainable development. 

WSA Winners for SDG 1: No Poverty