The UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) has launched its annual SDG progress report. The report warns that while there are solid social and economic gains, at the current pace, the Asia-Pacific region is on a trajectory to miss 103 out of 117 measurable SDG targets (88%) by 2030.

The ‘Asia and the Pacific SDG Progress Report 2026’ acknowledges that the region has achieved notable improvements in poverty reduction, industrialization, and health and well-being. However, it warns about setbacks in the areas of climate action, marine conservation, and biodiversity, as well as widening inequalities, which are undermining these gains. These trends point to “deeply unbalanced development,” the report underscores.

“The very engines of growth that once lifted millions out of poverty and fuelled rapid industrialization are now undermining our future,” wrote UN Under-Secretary-General and ESCAP Executive Secretary Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana in a foreword. She called for “a fundamental shift, one that integrates climate action, environmental protection and resource efficiency into the very heart of development planning,” in order “to build a region that is not only wealthier but also smarter, healthier and more just.”

The report notes that despite data availability for SDG indicators having reached an average of 55% in 2025, persistent gaps remain for SDG 5 (gender equality) and SDG 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions), among other areas. It underscores the importance of closing these gaps for informed policymaking and accelerated progress towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The flagship report was launched on 18 February 2026, alongside a companion analysis paper, which explores the fundamental shifts driving sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region in the areas of food systems, energy, digital connectivity, education, welfare and social protection, and the environment.

The publications will contribute to the deliberations during the 2026 Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development, taking place from 24-27 February.

Each year, outcomes of the five Regional Forums on Sustainable Development (RFSDs) feed into the discussions during the July session of the UN High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF). HLPF 2026 will convene under the theme, ‘Transformative, equitable, innovative and coordinated actions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its SDGs for a sustainable future for all.’ It will conduct in-depth reviews of SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation), SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure), and SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities), and SDG 17 (partnerships for the Goals). [Publication: Asia and the Pacific SDG Progress Report 2026] [Highlights] [Publication Landing Page] [ESCAP Press Release] [UN News Story]