New York: Reviews of Sustainable Development Goal policies and progress have played a significant role in integrating young people, women, communities, and marginalized groups into the sustainable development policymaking and implementation process. This pivotal message emerged from the 2025 Voluntary National Review (VNR) Lab hosted by ECA, the Regional Commissions New York Office, and the other four Regional Commissions – ECE, ESCAP, ESCWA, and ECLAC.
According to African Press Organization, the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in New York annually serves as a platform where regional commissions conduct a VNR lab to showcase best practices and lessons learned globally. This year’s lab concentrated on harnessing SDG interlinkages through the VNR, gathering representatives, policymakers, and stakeholders from five countries: The Bahamas, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Qatar, and Uganda.
During the event, VNR representatives presented detailed insights into the review process, indicating how it engages stakeholders and civil society, enhances data collection and analysis, and connects with ongoing and planned national development plans. Emphasis was also placed on the local level, where implementation and impact are most critical, through local reviews that are linked to the VNR.