World leaders unite to encourage progress on global goals

The pandemic is stalling advancement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, so we must work together more than ever to make change

World leaders are uniting virtually this week and next for the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) where they’ll discuss progress toward meeting the Sustainable Development Goals — global plans for creating a better future for all — by 2030. This comes at a time when health systems are overwhelmed, businesses shuttered and 1.6-billion students are out of school due to the pandemic, according to a United Nations’ (UN) report.

The meetings, designed to track the progress of the goals, will follow a theme of building back after the pandemic, covering topics such as poverty reduction and financing for developing countries.

The United Nations’ goals for a sustainable future “will depend on our policy choices today, and our resolve to act together in solidary,” said Mher Margaryan, the vice-president of the UN Economic and Social Council, on the eve of the HLPF.

Children Believe works with partners, governments and other civil-society organizations to address the global goals by supporting thriving communities to grow, advancing child rights and protection, promoting equality for girls and partnering with children for change.

Learn more about our work, today.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

 

About Inspiring Stories

February 2026

Tableside: Children Believe's Voice in Canada's Gl...

During International Development Week, Fred Witteveen shares why bringing field-based evidence to Ottawa matters and how international development is a strategic investment in Canada’s global future.

February 2026

Ed Blackmore: Celebrating a man who inspired all w...

A tribute to Ed Blackmore, a devoted educator, father, and 25-year child sponsor whose faith, kindness, and generosity inspired all who knew him.

February 2026

From an India boarding school to 35 years of spons...

Follow Dan Sinclair’s 35-year journey as a child sponsor with Children Believe, inspired by his family’s legacy and lifelong connection to India.