New York: Reviews of Sustainable Development Goal policies and progress have played a significant role in integrating young people, women, communities, and marginalized groups into the sustainable development policy-making and implementation process. This was a key message delivered at the 2025 Voluntary National Review (VNR) Lab, which was hosted by ECA, the Regional Commissions New York Office, along with the other four Regional Commissions – ECE, ESCAP, ESCWA, and ECLAC.

According to African Press Organization, the annual High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in New York serves as a platform where the regional commissions organize a VNR lab to showcase best practices and lessons learned globally. This year’s lab concentrated on Harnessing SDG interlinkages through the VNR, bringing together representatives, policymakers, and stakeholders from The Bahamas, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Qatar, and Uganda.

The VNR representatives provided detailed presentations on how the review process connects with stakeholders and civil society, enhances data collection and analysis, and aligns with ongoing and planned national development plans. They also emphasized the importance of local-level engagement, where implementation and impact are crucial, through local reviews that connect to the VNR.