MDG Report 2011

This report provides the latest update on Africa’s progress towards the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), following the landmark September 2010 High Level Panel event. This event noted that the global achievement of the MDGs by 2015 is still possible through strengthened international partnership, closer collaboration between national authorities and development partners, and committed political will at the national level.

The report notes that progress toward the MDGs is continuing, but that the food, fuel, and financial crises over the past few years, coupled with the instability in North Africa in 2011, may impact on the pace of advancement. This calls for efforts to be redoubled to preserve gains and ensure success.

In particular, declines in labor productivity, increasing youth unemployment, and rising numbers of working poor are worrisome trends for the continent. Indeed, the recent political developments in North Africa and the Middle East are a wake-up call both for Africa and other global regions on the need for a more inclusive and equitable approach to growth.