UN HLPF 2025: Driving Inclusive, Science-Based Progress on the SDGs

The United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) 2025 is taking place from July 14–23 at UN Headquarters in New York, marking a decade of global effort since the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Under the theme “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals,” this year’s forum is focused on reviewing five critical SDGs:

• SDG 3 – Good health and well-being

• SDG 5 – Gender equality

• SDG 8 – Decent work and economic growth

• SDG 14 – Life below water

• SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals

A key feature of the forum is the presentation of Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) by 37 countries, offering valuable insights into national progress, challenges, and innovations in sustainable development.

From July 21–23, a ministerial segment will bring together high-level officials to adopt a ministerial declaration, reaffirming global commitments and guiding SDG efforts during the final five years to 2030.

The Forum also features over 190 side events, including a Science Day, VNR Labs, and multi-stakeholder dialogues on climate, food systems, oceans, and development financing. These activities highlight the importance of inclusive and science-driven policy-making.

HLPF 2025 builds on key global processes including the 2024 Summit of the Future, the Beijing+30 Review, and preparations for upcoming UN conferences on oceans and development finance.

With time running short to meet the 2030 Goals, HLPF 2025 serves as a critical moment to accelerate progress, scale partnerships, and ensure no one is left behind.