Conducted by CPDE in time for the 2021 UN High Level Political Forum, this study presents the perspectives of 109 CSOs from 45 countries and territories on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs), using the lens of effective development cooperation (EDC).

This is based on the CPDE survey conducted from March 27 to April 30, 2021. A total of 109 CSOs participated in this survey from 45 countries – all but three are developing countries, and 11 are scheduled to present their Voluntary National Reviews (VNR) in 2021.

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 note challenges in attaining the goals amidst the COVID-19 crisis. They also offer recommendations to improve SDG implementation, founded on fostering an enabling environment for civil society participation.