An era of new partnerships

Looking back to the creation process and results of the MDGs, there are many lessons to be learned and achievements to be proud of. The number of people living in extreme poverty has declined by more than half, falling from 1.9 billion in 1990 to 314 million in 2015. The number of out-of-school children of primary school age worldwide has fallen by almost half and many more girls are now in school compared to 15 years ago. The global under-five mortality rate has declined by more than half and the maternal mortality ratio has declined by 45 per cent worldwide.

The successes of the MDGs prove that global action works. It is the only path to ensure that the new development agenda leaves no one behind. There is no question that only shared responsibility and action can put an end to poverty and create a world of dignity for all. So, the hundred and ninety three countries that adopted the SDGs have placed conscious effort to make the consultation process participatory. The sustainable development discussions were driven by all the member states rather than few countries and development partners. Civil Society Organizations and Private Sector Organizations actively participated to lobby for global interest and to set the development agenda for greater well-being.

In run up to the adoption of the SDGs, many private corporations have pledged their commitment in helping to realize the new goals. Ooredoo has gone a step further and has decided to build effective country level partnerships in fulfilling its commitment. The Ooreedoo Group globally committed to the global goals of promoting good health, strengthening gender equality, stimulating innovation and infrastructure, enhancing quality education and advocating climate action in September of this year. But partnerships for sustainable development take place first and foremost at the local and national levels rather than descending from international apex. This understanding drove the company locally to partner with UN Maldives within a week of the global commitment. As a community-focused company, Ooredoo is guided by a vision of using their services to enrich people’s lives and stimulate human growth. They believe in the power of mobile technology as an enabler, to bring about social and economic progress.