In September 2015, world leaders gathered at the UN General Assembly to launch an ambitious new sustainable development agenda. It builds on progress made since the Millennium Declaration, and seeks to reduce poverty and inequality, improve people’s lives, and promote peace, security, good governance, and the rule of law. Many voices, including those of parliamentarians have helped shape the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

All state institutions are expected to take part in implementing the SDGs at national and international levels. Country ownership, government accountability and national policy will be essential to ensure that the new set of objectives is attained. Parliaments are at the forefront of these imperatives, because they play a critical role in meeting those requirements through their lawmaking, budgeting, and oversight functions.