In 2015-2016, the development challenges impacting the world were thrown into stark relief. The Syria crisis entered its sixth year, with more than 250,000 people dead and some 12 million displaced. The devastating earthquake in Nepal last year killed more than 8,000 people and left many homeless. Despite great progress, women were still underrepresented in governments and parliaments and overrepresented in the population of people living in poverty 20 years after the 1995 UN Fourth World Conference on Women.

Yet UNDP remains confident about the prospects for development. 2015 was also a watershed year for all who are concerned about the future of people and our planet, including UNDP and the wider UN system.

In September 2015, world leaders signed an historic agreement to end poverty and protect the planet on which we all depend. For the next 15 years, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will guide UNDP’s work to support governments to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and achieve sustainable development. UNDP, with its partners within and beyond the UN system, will support countries to achieve the SDGs and fulfil the promise they hold for all people.

Highlights

• 2.1 million people gaining access to legal aid in 33 countries, 51% of which are women;
• 1,035 plans for disaster risk reduction and adaptation put in place in 51 countries;
• 76 countries implementing measures towards low emissions and climate-resilient development;
• 35 countries with enforceable regulations addressing disaster and climate risk;
• 18.6 million people benefited from improved livelihood.