A human rights based approach to the Means of Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals

The “Means of Implementation” are a mix of enablers of financial resources to support the SDGs, as well as systemic issues. Together, they constitute a set of tools and resources that need to be achieved if the SDGs are to be realised by 2030.

Using human rights standards and principles to guide the Means of Implementation can inform and support more equitable outcomes and effective Means of Implementation. Moreover, there are risks that inadequate consideration of the human rights dimensions and implications of the Means of Implementation may undermine efforts to achieve the SDGs. A human rights-based approach to the Means of Implementation is therefore needed.

This report explores some of the financing issues dealt with by SDG17 from a human rights perspective, focusing on:

• Domestic Resource Mobilisation
• Investments
• Trade
• Official Development Assistance
• Public Debt Sustainability
• Public Private Partnerships

Each chapter will provide a background to some of the key issues dealt with by the targets related to SDG 17, demonstrate their links to human rights, where relevant provide recommendations for how to ensure a human rights-based approach (HRBA) to the issue at hand, and provide an overview of relevant international processes and work streams as well as suggestions for further reading on each issue.