Challenges in Attaining Sustainable Development Goals Between Income Groups: A Systematic Comparative Analysis

Abstract

Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) presents distinct challenges across different income economies, necessitating a comprehensive analysis to identify critical factors influencing progress. This study systematically examines obstacles to SDG attainment across various income groups by analyzing data from 215 nations spanning 2012 to 2021. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was employed to uncover patterns within the factors, while fuzzy graph modeling elucidated their dynamic influences. The analysis focused on nine key variables: poverty, unemployment, youth literacy, adult literacy, health (undernourishment), food security, access to electricity, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, and other greenhouse gas emissions. Findings indicate that CO2 emissions serve as the primary barrier to achieving SDG 13 (climate action) in high-income nations. Conversely, poverty and undernourishment emerge as significant challenges impeding progress in upper-middle-income, lower-middle-income, and low-income groups. The study provides a novel, integrated view of the multifaceted impacts and interactions between socio-economic and environmental factors in addressing SDG challenges. The results offer valuable insights for policymakers, highlighting the need for differentiated strategies tailored to income-specific contexts. It is recommended that governments in high-income countries extend financial support to lower-income groups to alleviate poverty and improve food security, while fostering collaboration in climate mitigation and adaptation to promote balanced and sustainable global development.