Conducted by the global civil society platform CSO Partnership for Development Effectiveness in time for the UN High Level Political Forum, this study presents the perspectives of 43 CSOs from 32 countries on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Voluntary National Reviews, using the lens of effective development cooperation (EDC).

While acknowledging the integration of SDGs in national development planning, respondents suggest weak country ownership and institutional stakeholder engagement, and poor transparency and inclusivity in the SDG processes. They identify major gaps in implementing SDGs, such as the inadequate engagement of CSOs, and expect challenges in attaining the goals in light of COVID-19. They also offer recommendations to improve SDG implementation, founded on fostering an enabling environment for civil society participation.