SDG Goal 10: Reduce inequalities

Goal 10 of the 2030 Agenda aims to reduce inequalities within and among countries and promote social, economic and political inclusion. Inequality is one of the biggest obstacles to sustainable development and global poverty reduction. According to the ASviS 2021 report, the economic crisis triggered by the pandemic has had a major impact on inequalities between genders, generations and regions in our country. Despite redistribution measures, inequality of disposable income remains significantly higher in the South.

Inequalities within and between countries are caused by a number of complex and interrelated factors. Globalisation has led to an increase in inequality due to the concentration of power and resources: in 2019, the richest 1% of the world's population had twice as much net wealth as the poorer half. A lack of economic opportunities is another factor, especially for people in developing countries. Discrimination and social exclusion contribute to inequality, as does the lack of access to education and healthcare. Corruption prevents a fair distribution of resources. Finally, climate change exacerbates inequalities.

There are various solutions to reduce inequalities within and between countries. One of the most important solutions is the promotion of social and economic inclusion, i.e. the creation of an environment in which all people have equal opportunities to participate in social, cultural, political and economic life. This can be achieved by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices that hinder equality, by adopting tax and wage policies to reduce income inequality and by providing access to employment opportunities and vocational training. In addition, the adoption of social protection measures can help to provide financial support to those in need. Finally, greater representation and voice of developing countries in decision-making in international economic and financial institutions can help to ensure greater balance.

Although some progress has been made in tackling inequality, many challenges still need to be addressed to achieve Goal 10 by 2030. According to the ASviS 2021 report, the economic crisis triggered by the pandemic has had a significant impact on the gender, generational and territorial inequalities that have long characterised our country. In addition, the youth employment rate has fallen, exacerbating intergenerational inequalities. In addition, global challenges such as the growing inequality between countries and the need for greater representation and voice of developing countries in the decision-making processes of international economic and financial institutions need to be addressed.

International organisations, governments, businesses and civil society play a key role in combating inequality. The goals of the 2030 Agenda can only be achieved through cooperation between these actors, who must act in a coordinated and integrated manner. International organisations such as the UN have a role to play in coordinating and promoting action to reduce inequality at a global level. Governments, in turn, must pursue inclusive and redistributive policies and ensure access to basic services. Companies can not only take internal measures to reduce inequalities, but also promote sustainable development by investing in socially responsible projects. Finally, civil society has a role to play in monitoring the implementation of measures to reduce inequalities, promoting dialogue and democratic participation.

Migration is an important factor in reducing inequality, as it offers many people greater economic, social and cultural opportunities. According to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), there were approximately 281 million migrants worldwide in 2020, representing 3.6 per cent of the world's population. Planned and well-managed migration policies can help reduce inequalities by ensuring more regular and safer migration flows and promoting the protection of migrants' human rights. In addition, well-managed migration flows can also have a positive impact on economic growth and the reduction of inequalities, for example through the transfer of skills and knowledge between countries and the reduction of wage gaps.

Reducing inequality has numerous positive effects on society and the global economy. According to an OECD study, reducing income inequality by one percentage point would increase economic growth by an average of 0.1-0.2 per cent over the next five years. In addition, greater economic and social inclusion has been shown to lead to greater political and social stability and better healthcare and education. According to the World Bank, reducing income inequality could increase average incomes by 25 per cent by 2030. Finally, reducing inequality can lead to greater social cohesion and a better perception of justice, fostering a climate of trust and co-operation.

Inequalities are a key challenge for the realisation of the Sustainable Development Goals. Reducing them requires an integrated approach that includes promoting social and economic inclusion, eliminating discriminatory laws and reducing income inequalities. Reducing inequalities can also contribute to the fight against climate change, as people living in poverty are often the most vulnerable to the effects of global warming. Reducing inequalities is therefore crucial for a more sustainable and inclusive future. At 3Bee, we are not directly committed to SDG 10, but we are committed to raising awareness of the importance of reducing inequalities within and between countries. Contact us to find out how we can help your organisation actively shape sustainability.