The Global Goals were recently adopted at the UN Sustainable Development Summit in New York.

As part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by States, the goals address areas of critical importance for humanity, setting targets for ending poverty and hunger, taking action against climate change, and promoting peaceful societies. The goals are universal, applying to both developed and developing countries.

New Zealand, along with its Pacific neighbours, is expected to incorporate the goals into policy and practice, and to measure and report on progress.

Red Cross Secretary General Tony Paine says the adoption of the Global Goals is a positive step, as they address many of the challenges faced by Pacific Island countries.

“Goal 13 on climate action is particularly important for the Pacific. With devastating impacts of climate change already being felt in the region, Pacific leaders are calling for stronger action on climate change to be agreed to at the Paris climate talks in December.”

Every day, Red Cross National Societies in the Pacific work to help people affected by these issues. By supporting these societies through training, development and funding, New Zealand Red Cross is already working towards the aims of the Global Goals, Mr Paine says.

“We’re connected to our Pacific neighbours not only by geography, but also through kinship. It’s crucial we continue to foster these relationships, to help strengthen community resilience and development across the whole Pacific region.

“New Zealand Red Cross supports the adoption of the Global Goals and we hope they will reinforce partnerships and humanitarian efforts at home and in the Pacific.”

For more on the 17 global goals, visit http://www.globalgoals.org/