Why it matters
Sustained economic growth can drive progress, create decent jobs, and improve living standards. However, growth must be inclusive and environmentally sustainable to benefit everyone.
Key facts
- 160M160 million children were engaged in child labor in 2020, with progress stalled.Source: ILO 2024
What the world agreed to
Key targets for Goal 8. The full list, with indicators, is on the UN's site.
See all targets on sdgs.un.org- Sustain per capita economic growth of at least 7% GDP annually in least developed countries
- Achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all
- Eradicate forced labor, modern slavery, human trafficking, and child labor
- Protect labor rights and promote safe working environments for all workers
Take action on Goal 8
Campaigns on this goal
Things you can do this week
Community
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Who leads globally
8 UN agencies and international organizations work on Goal 8.
- IFADInternational Fund for Agricultural DevelopmentInvests in rural people to eliminate poverty, hunger and malnutrition.
- ILOInternational Labour OrganizationPromotes decent work and social justice for all.
- IMFInternational Monetary FundFosters global monetary cooperation and financial stability.
- IOMInternational Organization for MigrationPromotes humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all.
- UNIDOUN Industrial Development OrganizationPromotes inclusive and sustainable industrial development.
- UN WomenUN WomenDedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women.
Closely connected goals
Progress here moves together with these goals.