Reduced Inequalities
Reduced Inequalities is one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations in 2015. It aims to reduce inequalities within and among countries, promoting social, economic, and political inclusion for all individuals, regardless of their age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status, by 2030.
What is Reduced Inequalities?
Reduced Inequalities seeks to address the pervasive disparities that exist worldwide. It recognizes that inequalities exist in various forms, such as income, wealth, education, healthcare access, social protection, justice, and political representation. The goal is to create a more equitable and inclusive society by focusing on closing the gaps and ensuring that all individuals have equal opportunities for social and economic development.
Reduced Inequalities acknowledge that inequalities can hinder sustainable development and undermine social cohesion. This SDG aims to empower marginalized and vulnerable populations by promoting inclusive policies and programs, enhance their capabilities, and ensure their participation in decision-making processes.
Definition of Reduced Inequalities
Reduced Inequalities Initiatives
Access to Quality Education
This initiative focuses on developing and upgrading infrastructure, including transportation, energy, and information and communication technology (ICT), to enhance connectivity and promote sustainable development. It involves the construction of resilient and inclusive infrastructure systems that can withstand natural disasters and climate change impacts. Additionally, this initiative emphasizes the integration of renewable energy sources, smart technologies, and sustainable urban planning practices to improve efficiency and reduce environmental footprints.
Gender Equality
Aims to support developing countries in diversifying their economies, boosting manufacturing industries, and creating job opportunities, particularly in sustainable and inclusive ways. It encourages the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), entrepreneurship, and the adoption of sustainable production and consumption patterns. By promoting sustainable industrial practices, such as resource efficiency, circular economy approaches, and clean technologies, this initiative seeks to minimize environmental impacts while fostering economic growth.
Economic Empowerment
Promotes research and development activities, innovation ecosystems, and the adoption of new technologies to address global challenges and drive sustainable development. It encourages investment in research and innovation, fostering collaborations between academia, industry, and government to develop sustainable solutions. This initiative supports the advancement and diffusion of technologies that improve energy efficiency, promote renewable energy sources, enhance agricultural productivity, and facilitate digital transformation. By harnessing the power of innovation, this initiative aims to address pressing global issues such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.
Why Reduced Inequalities is Important
Social Stability
Inequalities, particularly socioeconomic disparities, can lead to social unrest, tension, and conflict within societies. When a significant portion of the population is excluded from accessing basic resources, opportunities, and rights, it creates a sense of injustice and frustration. By reducing inequalities, societies can foster social stability by promoting a more cohesive and harmonious environment.
Innovation and Technological Advancement:
Inequality can act as a barrier to innovation and technological advancement. When certain segments of society are systematically excluded from accessing education, resources, and opportunities, their potential contributions to science, technology, and innovation are hindered. By reducing inequalities and ensuring equal access to education and resources, societies can tap into diverse talents and perspectives.
Disparities in Income
Income inequality refers to unequal wealth and financial resources distribution among individuals and groups. High levels of income inequality can have adverse effects on both the economy and society as a whole. When a small portion of the population holds disproportionate wealth, it can lead to economic instability and hinder overall economic growth. Additionally, income inequality can perpetuate social disparities, limit social mobility, and deepen divisions between different groups.
Reduced Inequalities Statistics
42 Trillion
According to the OXFAM International (IMF), the richest 1 percent grabbed nearly two-thirds of all new wealth worth $42 trillion created since 2020, almost twice as much money as the bottom 99 percent of the world’s population, reveals a new Oxfam report today. During the past decade, the richest 1 percent had captured around half of all new wealth.
17% Less
According to Forbes Advisor, the average woman earns just 82 cents for every dollar earned by a man. This disparity is even greater for women of color, with African American women earning just 60 cents and Latinas earning only 55 cents for every dollar earned by white, non-Hispanic men.
263 Million
About 263 million children and youth are out of school, according to new data from the UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS). This is equivalent to a quarter of the population of Europe. The total includes 61 million children of primary school age, 60 million of lower secondary school age, and includes the first-ever estimate of those of upper secondary school age at 142 million.
Reduced Inequalities in the News
Progress and setbacks In reducing income Inequalities
SDG 10 is aimed at creating a more equitable world. Global inequality had been declining for decades before the arrival of COVID-19: the Gini index dropped from about 70 in 1990 to 62 in 2019. The pandemic, however, resulted in the largest increase in global inequality in three decades.
Technology and Innovation Report 2021
According to the United Nations website, between 1820 and 2002, the contribution of between-country inequality to global inequality rose from 28% to 85%. The outcomes for one generation have affected the opportunities for the next - resulting in the intergenerational transmission of inequalities.
150 Executives Commit to Fostering Diversity and Inclusion
Companies have said for years that they are committed to diversity. And many have increased their numbers of female and minority employees. But helping employees feel they are valued and included has been a more complex process.
How to Help Reduced Inequalities Initiatives
Advocate
If you work for a company or have business connections, advocate for corporate support and partnerships with NGOs. Encouraging corporate social responsibility initiatives can drive positive change and lead to more sustainable and inclusive business practices.
Raising awareness about the importance of reducing inequalities is a powerful tool for inspiring change and mobilizing collective action. Here are some ways you can promote awareness and advocate for social justice:
Fundraising and Awareness Campaigns
Help organize fundraising events and awareness campaigns for these organizations. Your effort can raise vital funds and draw attention to the issues.
Donating to these organizations provides them with the necessary resources to carry out their projects effectively. Your financial support can aid in providing essential services, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities to those in need.
Learn More
In-depth knowledge about the complexities of inequalities is crucial for being an effective advocate for social justice. Empower yourself with information to become a more informed and compassionate ally to marginalized groups:
As you educate yourself, share your knowledge with others to foster understanding and empathy. Be a resource for information and help dispel misconceptions about marginalized groups.
