Definition of the concept and the goals of sustainable development
Authors: Sabovchyk A. , Popovych A. 
Published: February 2025

This article examines the key aspects of the concept of sustainable development, its theoretical foundation, global evolution, and adaptation in Ukraine. Sustainable development is defined as a comprehensive process aimed at harmonizing social, economic, and environmental components to ensure the effective use, conservation, and restoration of the natural environment. It focuses on creating conditions that allow achieving a high quality of life for current and future generations. The concept emerged from the integration of three key subsystems: economic, social, and environmental, and is based on the principle of balance among them. The article highlights the global context of sustainable development, particularly the transition from the Millennium Development Goals (2000) to the Sustainable Development Goals (adopted by the United Nations in 2015). The Sustainable Development Goals – encompass 17 goals and 169 targets, aiming to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, protect the environment, stimulate sustainable economic growth, and strengthen institutional capacity. The article addresses critical aspects such as access to quality education, gender equality, healthcare, combating climate change, and preserving terrestrial and ocean ecosystems. It emphasizes that success in one goal depends on progress in others, necessitating an integrated approach.
Special attention is given to the implementation of the SDGs in Ukraine. The article describes the adaptation of global goals to national conditions, the development of a national framework encompassing 86 tasks, the creation of indicators for monitoring implementation, and the establishment of target benchmarks for 2030. The political support for the SDGs is underscored, as demonstrated through strategic documents like the National Report «Sustainable Development Goals: Ukraine» and amendments to governmental regulations, integrating the achievement of the SDGs into state planning processes.
The article discusses the importance of monitoring SDG implementation, improving the national statistical system, and establishing continuous oversight of indicators. It mentions Ukraine’s first Voluntary National Review on SDG implementation, presented on the international stage in 2020. The necessity of effective funding for sustainable development is also highlighted, including the attraction of international resources and optimization of existing mechanisms. The initiatives of international organizations such as UNDP, WHO, and UNICEF in collaboration with the Ukrainian government to enhance SDG financing mechanisms are described.
The article emphasizes the significance of cross-sectoral collaboration, ensuring transparency, accountability, and participation of all stakeholders in the sustainable development process. It stresses the need to integrate human rights, healthcare, and environmental protection into all aspects of policy and planning. Challenges related to resource shortages, policy inconsistencies, and the need for global coordination are discussed. The article concludes that successful implementation of the SDGs is achievable only through the mobilization of financial resources, the introduction of innovations, and the strengthening of international partnerships.