Political Thriller Exposes the Underbelly of Global Goals

Abstract

This commentary characterizes the SDG indicator framework as a ‘political thriller’ in which the power struggles are hidden behind the veil of technocratic expertise. Like a Trojan horse, each indicator conceals the theories of change and development that lie within, exerting their interpretive influence. Where the politics will ultimately lead to by 2030 – in shaping policy priorities, power structures, and knowledge about development – is for now unknown and unpredictable.