The Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations has prescribed four guiding principles for member nations to help turn the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN Agenda 2030 into reality.

His Excellency Jan Eliasson spoke of 'Transformation in a Changing World' at the World Government Summit and listed the following principles:

1. Universality:

“SDGs reflect obligations of all countries and also reflect the aspirations and dreams of millions around the world. The goals are to give horizon and hope to everyone everywhere – especially to those who live in states ravaged by conflict.”

2. Integrating agenda in every nation's planning and institutions:

“We have to avoid the vertical working method and reach out to other sectors. Certain governments like the UAE are already are framing national strategies based on SDGs. I urge other governments to vigorously do so as well.”

3. Using agenda as comprehensive framework for goals as tools: 

“SDGs build bridges between peace, security and human rights. Advancing one goal will trigger progress in the others. The agenda calls for a whole of government and whole of society approach.”

4. Keeping track of progress: 

“In the 2030 agenda, there is a UN review at country level. The agenda is a unique opportunity to rally all countries for more fair, equitable, world. "

Eliasson urged member nations to keep ambitions high, calling the 2030 agenda “the most transformative agenda ever adopted by member states of the UN”.