The transition from the MDGs to the SDGs represents a period of flux where those engaged in development cooperation — both within the multilateral system and beyond — are assessing their role in the implementation of the new agenda. As countries and people strive to implement the SDGs, there will be a process of learning and adapting to support their implementation.

With an extensive field network, UNDP can play a critical convening role that supports a people-centred multistakeholder approach to development — governments (national and local) the private sector (domestic and multinational) science, academia, media and civil society. This approach can lead to a more effective diagnosis of the most pressing constraints, as well as a sensitization, and approaches, to addressing poverty and exclusion in the last mile.

UNDP focuses on three substantive areas of work to support programme countries in implementing the post-2015 Sustainable Development Agenda:  1) Sustainable Development Pathways, 2) Inclusive and Effective Democratic Governance, and 3) Resilience-building. These areas of work are relevant for all programme countries — LDCs, low- and middle-income, and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) — in different contexts and with varying degrees of emphasis. Together, they present a global package of services that can be tailored to each national setting in agreement with the programme country.