How the trillions the UN is wasting on feel-good climate plans could be saving lives |
As 2026 begins, many of us have been taking stock of the year behind us and setting intentions for the one ahead.
For the world’s poorest, this was the year when the United Nations’ over-ambitious plan to solve every pressing global problem fell apart.
We should vow to be smarter, and do better, this year.
Back in 2015, the UN set sweeping targets to eradicate poverty, hunger, disease, inequality, climate threats and even conflict by 2030 with its 169 Sustainable Development Goals.
Governments worldwide essentially promised every good thing imaginable, including organic apples and community gardens for everyone.
But when everything is a priority, nothing is. With 169 targets, it’s no surprise that progress toward many important goals has slipped.
The latest scorecard shows only 18% of UN targets are on track, while one-third are stalled or going backward.
Nations and aid organizations lack resources to fund this overambitious wish list.
The total shortfall to achieve all goals is likely a spectacular $10 trillion to $15 trillion each year.
Meanwhile, wealthier countries — grappling with serious geopolitical tensions — have slashed aid budgets.
After a 9% cut in 2024, the total drop in 2025 will likely........