Overview

The Union of the Comoros (Comoros) presented its second Voluntary National Review (VNR) in July 2023, three years after its first report in 2020, amid a challenging global context shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine–Russia conflict. Despite these difficulties, the country has advanced from low to medium human development and from low-income to lower-middle-income status. Anchored in the Plan Comores Émergent (PCE), adopted in 2019 to align national development with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the 2023 VNR highlights efforts to integrate emergency responses with long-term goals, notably through the 2022 post-COVID-19 Recovery Plan. The review adopts a participatory approach, engaging central and local authorities, civil society, the private sector, and vulnerable groups to assess progress and identify structural constraints to fully achieving the 2030 Agenda.

Recommendations

Accelerate PCE Implementation: Prioritise the mobilisation of resources pledged at the CPAD to fund the catalytic projects under the PCE.
Strengthen Data Systems: Urgently invest in the National Institute of Statistics (INSEED) to close data gaps, particularly for environmental and climate indicators.
Operationalise Anti-Corruption: Finalise and rigorously enforce the new anti-corruption legal framework to enhance governance and attract foreign direct investment.
Enhance Climate Finance: Operationalise the AND to access global climate funds, including the Green Climate Fund, for adaptation projects.
Focus on Human Capital: Continue investing in education and vocational training to align skills with the needs of emerging sectors such as tourism and the blue economy.

Conclusions

The 2023 VNR of the Union of the Comoros highlights a nation striving for emergence amid a challenging global context. While notable progress has been made in environmental conservation (SDGs 14 and 15) and maintaining stability, critical areas such as poverty reduction, hunger, and governance still show insufficient progress. The report affirms the government’s commitment to the UN’s 2030 Agenda through the PCE and the Post-COVID Recovery Plan. Moving forward, success will depend on translating strategic visions into concrete actions, mobilising international financing, and strengthening statistical and institutional capacities to ensure that no Comorian is left behind.

SDGs Progress Tracker

Voluntary National Reports

Country Focal Point

Mr Mdahoma Bakary
Ministre du Developpement Rural, de la Peche et de l'Environment

Location

Ministre du Developpement Rural, de la Peche et de l'Environment, Moroni, Comoros

Get Directions

Region

Africa

No Poverty

SDG 1: No Poverty: Score: 2
Justification	The report classifies progress on this goal as off track, reflecting the compounded pressures created by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine crisis. While the Union of the Comoros has moved into the lower-middle-income category, external shocks have heightened socio-economic vulnerabilities and slowed national development efforts. The pandemic caused significant economic disruption, particularly in sectors dependent on mobility and trade, and the rise in global prices resulting from the Ukraine conflict has elevated the cost of living. At the same time, mobilising the resources pledged during the Conférence des Partenaires au Développement (CPAD) 2019 conference amounting to more than four billion dollars has proven difficult due to an unfavourable global context, limiting the country’s ability to advance planned investments.
Challenges	High poverty rates remain a persistent challenge, reflecting long-standing structural issues including unemployment, weak infrastructure, and limited fiscal capacity. The socio-economic shocks of the past three years have amplified pressures on households, especially those in rural areas, and widened existing inequalities. The country continues to face constraints in mobilising promised development financing, and the rise in the price of essential goods has reduced purchasing power, disproportionately affecting already vulnerable populations. Capacity limitations in administration, governance and service delivery further constrain the country’s ability to meet ODD-related targets at the required pace.
Progress/ Solution	Despite these constraints, the government has taken notable steps to mitigate the impacts of recent crises and strengthen resilience. In 2022, a post-COVID-19 recovery plan was adopted to address structural deficiencies, revive economic activity and reinforce social protection. Programmes such as the Programme National de Solidarité Famille (PNSF) aim to support vulnerable groups, while ongoing investments in water, sanitation, social protection and public services contribute to improving living conditions. Broader initiatives within the Plan Comores Émergent (PCE) also continue to guide recovery, prioritising inclusive growth, human capital development and stronger institutional frameworks.
Unsolved Challenges	Several issues remain unresolved and continue to hinder accelerated progress. Large-scale investment projects designed to stimulate growth have been delayed, slowing progress in key sectors such as infrastructure, energy, water, and social protection. Persistent data gaps, particularly in monitoring certain ODD indicators, impede effective planning and evaluation. The combined effects of global crises, a rapidly growing population and a constrained fiscal environment create additional barriers to achieving the targets by 2030. Without substantial resource mobilisation and sustained implementation of the national recovery and development strategies, progress is likely to remain insufficient.

Zero Hunger

SDG 2: Zero Hunger: Score: 2
Justification	Progress on this goal is assessed as off track, reflecting persistent structural vulnerabilities affecting food security and nutrition. Although national strategies and sectoral frameworks are in place, food security remains a significant concern, worsened by inflation in the prices of imported basic necessities. The country continues to rely heavily on food imports, making it highly exposed to global market fluctuations. This dependence, combined with limited domestic resilience, highlights the urgency of strengthening national production systems to reduce external vulnerability.
Challenges	Despite these efforts, agricultural productivity remains insufficient to meet national needs, and the domestic food supply is unable to reduce heavy reliance on imports. Inflation in global markets continues to impact local food prices, affecting household purchasing power, particularly among vulnerable groups. Additionally, structural constraints—including limited access to technology, weak infrastructure and the impacts of climate variability—continue to hamper progress. These challenges slow the country’s ability to achieve meaningful improvements in food availability, accessibility and nutritional outcomes.
Progress/ Solution	Several national initiatives have been adopted to address food insecurity while building climate resilience in the agricultural sector. The Plan National d’Investissement Agricole (PNIA 2020–2024) and the updated Contribution Déterminée au niveau National (CDN) integrate climate adaptation, agro-ecology and sustainable agricultural practices. Since 2019, programmes dedicated to developing agricultural value chains have been launched to enhance productivity, modernise the sector and improve livelihoods. These measures demonstrate a commitment to long-term transformation through climate-smart agriculture and better integration of resilience into national planning.
Unsolved Challenges	Key unresolved issues persist, most notably the need to achieve food sovereignty and reduce the burden of malnutrition within a context of global price volatility. Dependence on external markets leaves the country exposed to shocks beyond its control, and delayed structural transformation of the agricultural sector limits progress towards self-sufficiency. Ensuring sustainable improvements will require strengthened implementation of existing plans, increased investment, improved resilience to climate impacts and enhanced capacity for domestic production. Without substantial and sustained progress in these areas, achieving the targets by 2030 will remain a significant challenge.

Good Health

SDG 3: Good Health and Well Being: Score: 2
Justification	Progress on this goal is rated as off track, reflecting both the effective management of the COVID-19 pandemic and the continued structural constraints within the health system. The country was relatively successful in its response to the pandemic and was spared a high death toll, demonstrating the value of rapid mobilisation and public health measures. However, the crisis also revealed underlying weaknesses in health infrastructure, service delivery and workforce capacity, underscoring the need for long-term investments to strengthen system resilience.
Challenges	Despite this progress, the health system continues to face significant structural constraints, including inadequate infrastructure, limited specialised facilities and persistent shortages of qualified health professionals. The pandemic highlighted these limitations, revealing gaps in preparedness, referral capacity and essential services, particularly in remote and underserved areas. These constraints hinder the country’s ability to deliver equitable, high-quality healthcare across all islands and limit its capacity to respond effectively to future health emergencies.
Progress/ Solution	In response to the pandemic and the identified gaps, several measures have been adopted to reinforce the national health system. A Universal Health Coverage (Couverture Sanitaire Universelle – CSU) law was enacted, laying the foundation for improved access to essential health services and enhanced financial protection for the population. During the health emergency, the government mobilised medical and military personnel, along with the necessary equipment, to manage the crisis effectively and ensure continuity of care. These actions reflect a commitment to expanding healthcare provision and building a more responsive and resilient system.
Unsolved Challenges	Key unresolved challenges include the full implementation of Universal Health Coverage and ensuring fair and consistent access to quality healthcare for all populations across the archipelago. Disparities between islands, ongoing resource constraints and weaknesses in service delivery continue to affect health equity. Achieving Universal Health Coverage will require sustained financing, strengthened governance, expanded human resources and improved infrastructure. Without addressing these systemic issues, the country may struggle to guarantee equal access to essential healthcare and to meet its long-term health objectives.

Quality Education

SDG 4: Quality Education: Score: 3
Justification	Progress on this goal is rated as moderately off track, reflecting ongoing efforts to expand access to education and improve its quality in alignment with the PCE, which places strong emphasis on human capital development. While reforms and initiatives are advancing, several gaps persist, particularly in ensuring that all learners benefit equally from quality education. The overall pace of improvement remains steady but not yet sufficient to fully meet national development objectives.
Challenges	Despite these advances, the integration of environmental themes across the curriculum remains limited, with most climate-related content concentrated in higher education. There is a strong need to sensitise learners of all ages to environmental and climate issues to build a more informed and resilient society. At the same time, the education system faces structural challenges, including disparities in quality, insufficient resources and a persistent mismatch between training programmes and labour market needs.
Progress/ Solution	Concrete steps have been taken to integrate sustainability and environmental considerations within the education system. A master’s degree in environment and sustainable development has been developed at the University of the Comoros, providing advanced training to support national priorities in climate resilience and sustainable development. Broader work is also underway to strengthen educational access, enhance teaching quality and improve alignment with the PCE’s vision of developing a skilled and competitive workforce.
Unsolved Challenges	Key issues remain unresolved, particularly the need to generalise quality education and ensure that training pathways are better aligned with labour market requirements in order to reduce youth unemployment. Ensuring equitable access to high-quality learning opportunities across all islands and levels of education will require sustained investment, improved teacher training and stronger links between education and employment sectors. Without addressing these systemic challenges, the country may struggle to fully realise its human capital and support long-term sustainable development.

Gender Equality

SDG 5: Gender Equality: Score: 2
Justification	Progress on this goal is rated as off track reflecting the significant legislative advances made in recent years to strengthen gender equality and women’s rights. The 2018 Constitution guarantees women’s rights and enhances their political access, marking an important step toward institutionalising equality. These reforms demonstrate the country’s commitment to aligning national governance with gender-responsive principles. However, the persistence of violence against women and girls continues to undermine progress, and deep-rooted cultural barriers still limit full participation in decision-making in several areas.
Challenges	Despite these advancements, significant challenges remain. Violence against women and girls continues to be prevalent, indicating gaps in prevention, protection and enforcement. Cultural norms and social expectations in some communities still restrict women’s participation in political, economic and social decision-making. These barriers hinder the implementation of legal reforms and limit women’s opportunities for empowerment, thereby slowing progress toward equality.
Progress/ Solution	Notable progress has been achieved through new legal frameworks and institutional measures. The adoption of the 2020 Penal Code, which criminalises violence against women, represents a major step toward strengthening protection and accountability. The establishment of the Commissariat National à la Solidarité et à la Promotion du Genre further reinforces national structures dedicated to gender promotion and women’s empowerment. In a historic milestone, a woman was elected Governor for the first time, signalling improved representation and growing political inclusion.
Unsolved Challenges	Major unresolved issues include ensuring the effective enforcement of laws against gender-based violence and achieving genuine parity across political and economic spheres. Strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing community awareness and ensuring that legal protections translate into concrete results remain central priorities. Without stronger implementation mechanisms, improved access to justice and continued work to overcome cultural barriers, true equality and full participation for women cannot be fully realised.

Water & Sanitation

SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation: Score: 2
Justification	Progress on this goal is rated as off track, reflecting ongoing efforts to strengthen the management of water resources through Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). Historically, water resource management has been weak, with fragmented governance and limited infrastructure. The increasing impacts of climate change—such as variability in rainfall and pressure on freshwater supplies—pose a growing threat to national water security. These vulnerabilities highlight the need for coherent, long-term water governance reforms that ensure sustainable resource use and resilience.
Challenges	Despite these reforms, significant challenges persist. Weak historical management has created gaps in monitoring, infrastructure quality and service delivery. Climate change continues to exacerbate pressure on limited water supplies, complicating efforts to ensure sustainable and reliable access. Institutional capacity remains uneven, and effective coordination across agencies and islands is still limited, slowing the practical implementation of IWRM principles and the new Water Code.
Progress/ Solution	Important steps have been taken to improve the sector’s regulatory and institutional framework. A new Water Code and accompanying regulatory texts were adopted to rationalise the sector and establish clearer responsibilities and management standards. Projects aimed at protecting watersheds and wetlands, including those at Lake Dziani Boudouni, are underway to safeguard vital ecosystems and strengthen natural water reserves. These initiatives contribute to better planning, protection and sustainable use of water resources under the IWRM approach.
Unsolved Challenges	Key unresolved issues include guaranteeing consistent access to clean water for all households and effectively enforcing the newly adopted regulatory framework. Strengthening implementation mechanisms, improving infrastructure, and ensuring that regulatory standards are applied uniformly across all islands remain critical priorities. Without sustained investment, enhanced technical capacity and stronger cross-sector coordination, the country will face continued difficulties in securing long-term water security and meeting development objectives.

Clean Energy

SDG 7: Affordable Clean Energy: Score: 3
Justification	Progress on this goal is rated as moderately off track, reflecting the strategic importance of the energy sector within the Plan Comores Émergent. Energy security remains a central national priority, as the sector plays a key role in economic development and social well-being. However, reliance on imported fossil fuels continues to create vulnerability, exposing the country to fluctuations in global prices and external market instability. This dependence highlights the need for a more resilient and sustainable national energy system.
Challenges	Despite ongoing efforts, significant challenges persist. Continued dependence on imported hydrocarbons leaves the country exposed to price volatility and supply disruptions. Existing energy infrastructure remains limited, and capacity constraints slow the transition toward renewable energy deployment. Ensuring stable production, distribution and accessibility across all islands remains a complex task that requires substantial investment, technical expertise and improved regulatory frameworks.
Progress/ Solution	To address these challenges, the government is prioritising renewable energy projects—particularly geothermal and solar—to improve energy independence and promote environmental sustainability. These initiatives aim to diversify the energy mix, reduce the burden of fuel imports and support long-term development objectives. By investing in cleaner and more reliable energy sources, the country seeks to build a more stable and sustainable foundation for future growth.
Unsolved Challenges	Key unresolved issues include achieving a reliable and affordable energy supply for the entire population and significantly reducing dependence on hydrocarbons. Strengthening renewable energy capacity, modernising infrastructure and ensuring effective implementation of planned reforms remain essential. Without sustained investment and coordinated management, the country may continue to experience energy insecurity and struggle to meet its long-term sustainability and development goals.

Decent Work

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth: Score: 2
Justification	Progress on this goal is rated as moderately off track, reflecting an economy that has demonstrated resilience despite persistent structural constraints. While macroeconomic stability has been maintained, the country continues to face significant obstacles that limit its ability to accelerate growth and diversification. Low levels of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)—recorded at only 0.3% of GDP in 2021 and declining—highlight weaknesses in competitiveness and the overall business environment. These conditions underscore the need for reforms that can stimulate investment and strengthen long-term economic performance.
Challenges	Despite these measures, several challenges continue to hinder progress. The business environment requires substantial improvement to attract and retain investment, including addressing administrative bottlenecks, infrastructure gaps and regulatory constraints. Declining FDI inflows reflect limited investor confidence and a narrow economic base that restricts opportunities for large-scale investment. At the same time, job creation remains insufficient relative to the growing youth population, contributing to persistent unemployment and underemployment.
Progress/ Solution	The PCE provides a strategic framework to attract greater FDI, particularly in priority sectors such as tourism, fisheries and finance. These sectors are recognised for their growth potential and capacity to generate employment and foreign exchange. To further support economic development and address labour market challenges, a law promoting youth employment was promulgated. Together, these initiatives aim to enhance investment attractiveness, expand opportunities for young people and support the country’s transition toward a more dynamic and diversified economy.
Unsolved Challenges	Key unresolved issues include the need to significantly increase FDI flows and generate adequate decent jobs for the youth. Ensuring that investment-related reforms are effectively implemented and translated into tangible results will be critical. Strengthening the business environment, improving competitiveness and fostering private-sector development remain essential for long-term economic resilience. Without sustained progress in these areas, the country may struggle to meet its development objectives and offer meaningful economic opportunities to its young population.

Industry & Infrastructure

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: Score: 2
Justification	Progress on this goal is rated as off track, reflecting the central role that infrastructure development plays as a key pillar of the PCE. The country recognises that modern, reliable infrastructure is fundamental to supporting economic growth, social inclusion and long-term development. However, the generally poor quality of existing infrastructure continues to hinder investment, limit competitiveness and slow progress toward industrialisation. These constraints highlight the need for sustained structural improvements to unlock the country’s economic potential.
Challenges	Despite renewed commitment, infrastructure weaknesses remain widespread and continue to impede investment and industrial development. Limited institutional capacity, inadequate maintenance and financing constraints slow the pace of implementation. Industrialisation remains limited, in part due to insufficient infrastructure to support value-added production, logistics and market access. These challenges create bottlenecks that restrict economic diversification and reduce opportunities for job creation.
Progress/ Solution	The government is giving high priority to infrastructure development under the PCE, focusing on projects that aim to support economic transformation and strengthen national connectivity. These initiatives target critical sectors such as transport, energy, basic services and industrial development, with the objective of creating an enabling environment for private investment and broader economic activity. By advancing large-scale infrastructure projects, the country seeks to address long-standing structural gaps and lay the foundation for more inclusive and diversified growth.
Unsolved Challenges	Major unresolved issues include mobilising sufficient financing for large-scale infrastructure projects and fostering innovation to support sustainable industrialisation. Ensuring long-term investment, strengthening public–private partnerships and building institutional capacity are essential to delivering the infrastructure needed for economic transformation. Without sustained progress in financing, innovation and implementation, the country may struggle to achieve the structural transformation envisioned under the PCE.

Inequality

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities: Score: 2
Justification	The situation is justified by the evidence presented in the national report, where inequalities persist despite social safety net programmes, and the disparities between islands and between urban and rural areas continue to hinder equitable development. The report indicates that the objective relating to reduced inequalities is rated as off track, demonstrating that existing efforts have not yet translated into meaningful change for all socio-economic groups. This situation underscores the continued importance of addressing systemic and structural constraints affecting vulnerable groups, including women, young people, and persons living with disabilities. Furthermore, ensuring that no one is left behind remains a guiding commitment within national frameworks and policies, reflecting the need for reinforced action in the years ahead.
Challenges	Challenges persist in multiple dimensions, particularly in relation to governance, resource allocation, and equitable access to essential services. Geographic inequalities between the islands and between urban and rural zones continue to affect access to health, education, employment, and infrastructure. While social programmes are being deployed, their coverage and reach vary, and marginalised communities face ongoing barriers linked to resource distribution, administrative capacity, and socio-cultural constraints. Such disparities demonstrate the structural nature of inequality and the need for better coordination, targeted financing, and strengthened systems to ensure consistent and sustainable delivery of services.
Progress/ Solution	Progress to date demonstrates some positive momentum, particularly through the strengthening of social protection policies, including initiatives such as the Assurance Maladie Généralisée (AMG) and the introduction of a coverage framework under the Couverture Sanitaire Universelle. These policies reflect the government’s commitment to expanding protection access and reducing exposure to financial and social vulnerabilities, particularly among low-income households and fragile communities. However, given that inequalities remain visible between geographic areas and demographic groups, the overall progress is still categorised as off track, requiring further acceleration and policy reinforcement to close existing gaps.
Unsolved Challenges	Unresolved issues remain substantial and require dedicated and coordinated policy interventions. The need to reduce the gap between different socio-economic groups and ensure inclusive growth remains urgent and central to national development priorities. The persistence of unequal access to opportunities and basic services signals the need to scale up social protection, reinforce institutional mechanisms and monitoring systems, and more effectively localise development initiatives. Without accelerated action, inequalities risk widening further, particularly in the context of demographic pressure and economic fluctuations, which continue to disproportionately affect the most vulnerable segments of the population.

Sustainable Cities

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities: Score: 3
Justification	The justification for this assessment is based on the continued pressures linked to rapid population growth, with 850,694 inhabitants recorded in 2022, and the persistent disparities between urban and rural areas. Urbanisation challenges remain significant, particularly as the Union of the Comoros continues facing vulnerability to climate risks, including floods and coastal degradation. These factors influence infrastructure, basic services, and the well-being of communities, demonstrating the urgency of addressing resilience and planning gaps.
Challenges	Key challenges include inadequate infrastructure, weak governance structures, and insufficient waste management systems, which contribute to increased exposure to environmental and climate-related risks. Waste management and urban planning remain critical concerns, particularly in the absence of fully functional treatment and recycling systems and due to urban expansion occurring faster than the development of supporting regulatory frameworks and public services.
Progress/ Solution	Progress and proposed solutions include ongoing efforts to improve urban planning and strengthen institutional frameworks, while projects supporting urban resilience and improved waste management are being considered. Existing national frameworks, including the Plan Comores Émergent and sector-specific strategies, acknowledge the need to integrate resilience, infrastructure development and sustainable spatial planning into long-term development actions. However, implementation is still at an early stage, limiting the measurable outcomes to date.
Unsolved Challenges	Unresolved issues are linked to the need to sustainably manage rapid urbanisation, improve resilience, and develop efficient waste management models. Without strengthened institutional capacity, adequate financing, and accelerated implementation of planned projects, inequalities and environmental degradation may worsen. Ensuring sustainable cities and communities requires continued investment and effective coordination at national, regional, and local levels.

Responsible Consumption

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production: Score: 2
Justification	The justification for this status is based on persistent data gaps and the need to shift current consumption patterns, as highlighted in the national report. The progress for this area is rated as off track, reflecting that progress remains limited and that the current systems in place are not yet contributing to sustainable consumption and production practices at the required scale. Reliance on imported goods continues to shape consumption behaviours, further demonstrating structural vulnerabilities.
Challenges	Challenges include limited recycling infrastructure and continued dependence on imports, which reduce the potential for local value chains and circular production systems. These barriers restrict opportunities for waste reduction and resource reuse, and they also contribute to growing environmental pressures. Addressing these gaps requires investment in technology, local processing capacity, and strengthened institutional frameworks.
Progress/ Solution	Progress and proposed solutions include acknowledgement at policy level of the need to strengthen national systems and develop more sustainable models of production and consumption. Awareness campaigns on sustainable consumption are recognised as necessary and would support behavioural change as part of a broader transition towards improved resource efficiency. However, progress so far remains limited, and implementation of recommended measures is still evolving.
Unsolved Challenges	Unresolved issues relate to the need to promote circular economy principles and expand sustainable production methods nationally. Without significant progress in awareness, institutional strengthening and investment, existing practices may continue contributing to waste generation and resource inefficiency. Strengthening monitoring systems, addressing data gaps, and accelerating policy implementation will be essential to ensure long-term progress in sustainable consumption and production.

Climate Action

SDG 13: Climate Action: Score: 0
Justification	The justification for this rating reflects that the country remains highly vulnerable to climate-related risks while progress cannot yet be evaluated due to a lack of sufficient data. The status for this goal is therefore rated as no progress. Despite this limitation, the Union of the Comoros has demonstrated commitment and engagement through policy formulation and strategic action at national level, recognising climate change as a major threat requiring coordinated response.
Challenges	Key challenges persist, including insufficient institutional and financial capacities as well as significant gaps in climate-related data and monitoring systems. The lack of consolidated indicators prevents consistent assessment of progress and limits the ability to design evidence-based policy responses. These challenges continue to constrain national efforts to strengthen resilience and implement large-scale climate adaptation and mitigation initiatives.
Progress/ Solution	Progress and solutions under consideration include the update of the CDN in 2021 and the existence of a National Strategy on Climate Change, which provides a strategic framework for adaptation and mitigation efforts. These policy developments demonstrate a clear commitment to advancing climate resilience and aligning national actions with international frameworks. However, implementation remains at an early phase.
Unsolved Challenges	Unresolved issues include the urgent need to mobilise climate finance and operationalise the National Designated Authority (AND) to support coordination and access to international climate mechanisms. Strengthening institutional capacity, improving data collection systems, and accelerating financing mechanisms will be critical to achieve meaningful progress and address the country’s high vulnerability to climate impacts.

Life Below Water

SDG 14: Life Below Water: Score: 3
Justification	The justification for this rating is based on notable national efforts and progress in marine conservation, particularly through a strong focus on the blue economy. The status for this objective is rated as, moderately off track, reflecting substantial advancements already achieved. Marine protected areas have been expanded, and national policy frameworks increasingly recognise the sustainable use of marine resources as a development priority, demonstrating clear commitment.
Challenges	Challenges persist, including plastic pollution, illegal fishing activities, and limited enforcement capacity. A lack of data on several indicators — such as plastic debris density — weakens monitoring and policy planning. These data limitations restrict the ability to quantify environmental impact and effectively track long-term improvements, despite visible progress in selected areas.
Progress/ Solution	Progress and solutions include the implementation of initiatives supporting marine protection and pollution reduction. The regional project “EXPLOI” specifically targets plastic pollution, aligning with wider blue economy objectives. Additionally, the expansion of marine protected areas strengthens biodiversity conservation and supports long-term ecosystem resilience. These actions show tangible improvements in the protection and sustainable management of marine ecosystems.
Unsolved Challenges	Unresolved issues remain linked to the need to effectively monitor and reduce marine pollution and ensure sustainable fisheries management. Strengthening enforcement mechanisms, improving data systems, and expanding community engagement will be essential to maintain current progress and prevent ecosystem degradation. Continued investment and coordinated action will be required to secure long-term sustainability of marine resources.

Life on Land

SDG 15: Life on Land: Score: 3
Justification	The justification for this rating is based on the substantial progress made in expanding terrestrial protected areas, reflecting strong national commitment to biodiversity preservation. Progress is rated as moderately off track. The creation of additional protected areas demonstrates tangible advancement towards long-term ecological protection, although human pressure continues to affect natural ecosystems.
Challenges	Challenges remain, particularly deforestation and habitat loss linked to demographic growth, agricultural expansion and resource extraction. Human pressure continues to threaten natural habitats despite expanded formal protection, indicating that regulatory and operational gaps persist in the management of protected zones.
Progress/ Solution	Progress and solutions include the establishment of five new national parks between 2017–2021, resulting in terrestrial protected areas now covering over 27% of the national territory. This marks a major milestone in conservation and aligns national environmental actions with global biodiversity frameworks and sustainability objectives.
Unsolved Challenges	Unresolved issues include the effective enforcement of regulations against illegal logging and the need to strengthen community-based management approaches to ensure sustainability. Strengthening monitoring systems, involving local communities and improving governance mechanisms will be essential to secure long-term conservation gains.

Peace & Justice

SDG 16: Peace, Justice & Institutions: Score: 2
Justification	The justification for this rating reflects persistent governance constraints, including limited progress in strengthening justice systems and reducing corruption. The progress for this area is therefore assessed as off track. Perception of corruption remains high, and access to justice still requires improvement, indicating that legislative and institutional reforms have not yet translated into effective structural change.
Challenges	Challenges persist, particularly in operational and enforcement capacity. Despite legislative developments, corruption remains a challenge due to weak institutional frameworks, limited monitoring mechanisms, and insufficient transparency within public administration. These systemic barriers hinder effective implementation of reforms and reduce public confidence.
Progress/ Solution	Progress and proposed solutions include renewed institutional efforts, notably the proposal of a new anti-corruption law in 2023, and the establishment of the “Pôle judiciaire économique et financier”. These reforms demonstrate political recognition of the issue and represent important steps towards strengthening accountability and improving judicial efficiency.
Unsolved Challenges	Unresolved issues include the need to operationalise anti-corruption bodies effectively and improve transparency in public administration. Strengthening institutional capacity, ensuring enforcement of legal provisions, and improving public oversight mechanisms will be essential for building trust, improving governance and ensuring accountability.

Partnerships

SDG 17: Partnership and means of Implementation: Score: 3
Justification	The justification for this status reflects the country’s continued commitment to partnership and cooperation, while recognising ongoing constraints in financing and implementation. Progress is rated as moderately off track. Although the Union of the Comoros engages actively with development partners, challenges remain in mobilising funding commitments pledged during the CPAD 2019, and data gaps continue to affect planning, and monitoring indicators under SDG 17.
Challenges	Challenges persist in translating commitments into tangible and sustainable financing mechanisms. Funding mobilisation remains limited compared to needs, and the lack of comprehensive and up-to-date statistical data continues to constrain evidence-based decision-making and monitoring of development progress.
Progress/ Solution	Progress and proposed solutions include the organisation of a High-Level Partnership meeting held in 2022, which aimed to revive partner engagement and support resource mobilisation efforts. Additionally, the National Statistical System is established by law, providing an institutional foundation for improving the availability and reliability of development data.
Unsolved Challenges	Unresolved issues include the need to strengthen statistical capacity and secure predictable, long-term development financing. Improving coordination with partners, enhancing national data systems and ensuring the mobilisation of promised resources are essential steps to accelerate progress and implement development priorities effectively.

SDGs World Progress: Moderately Off-Track

SDGs World Progress: Off-Track

SDGs World Progress: No Progress

SDG13

Country Challenges

Strengthen governance: Improve coordination between national and local authorities, enforce legislation effectively, and reinforce anti-corruption measures to boost transparency and public trust.
Mobilise financing: Secure domestic and international funding, including CPAD 2019 pledges, climate finance, and public–private partnerships.
Enhance statistical capacity: Strengthen the National Statistical System to fill data gaps for SDG monitoring and evidence-based policymaking.
Boost climate resilience: Implement the climate strategy, expand monitoring, and enforce environmental regulations to protect ecosystems and reduce climate risks.
Promote social protection: Expand access to the AMG and other safety nets, targeting vulnerable and remote populations, including persons with disabilities.
Improve waste management: Develop recycling and waste-sorting infrastructure, raise community awareness, and reduce plastic and marine pollution.
Support sustainable urban planning: Integrate climate-smart planning, expand essential services, and reduce disparities between islands and rural/urban areas.
Strengthen education and community engagement: Promote sustainable behaviour, biodiversity protection, and civic participation, ensuring active involvement of youth, women, and local communities.

Country Lessons Learned

Resilience: The country showed resilience in managing the health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, successfully preventing high mortality.
Importance of Planning: Alignment of the PCE with the SDGs provides a strong strategic framework, though implementation requires acceleration.
Legal Frameworks: Recent legislative updates, including the Penal Code, Water Code, and Anti-Corruption Law, reflect a commitment to modernising the legal environment for development.
Environmental Leadership: The substantial expansion of protected areas highlights that environmental conservation can be a notable success, even amid wider challenges.

Country Contribution

2018: The new Constitution was adopted, guaranteeing women’s rights, and the first female Governor was elected, marking a milestone in gender equality.
2019: The PCE 2030 was launched to guide national development, complemented by the CPAD Conference in Paris to mobilise international support.
2020: The new Penal Code was promulgated, strengthening laws against gender-based violence, and the CDN was updated to reinforce climate commitments.
2021: Five new National Parks were created, expanding protected areas to over 27% of the national territory, demonstrating leadership in environmental conservation.
2022: The post-COVID-19 Recovery Plan was adopted to guide economic rebound, alongside a High-Level Partnership Meeting to strengthen development cooperation.
2023: The second VNR was presented, and new anti-corruption legislation was introduced to enhance transparency and governance.

Comoros

Overview

SDGs Progress Tracker

Voluntary National Reports

Country Focal Point

Location

Region

No Poverty

Zero Hunger

Good Health

Quality Education

Gender Equality

Water & Sanitation

Clean Energy

Decent Work

Industry & Infrastructure

Inequality

Sustainable Cities

Responsible Consumption

Climate Action

Life Below Water

Life on Land

Peace & Justice

Partnerships

SDGs World Progress: Moderately Off-Track

SDGs World Progress: Off-Track

SDGs World Progress: No Progress

Country Challenges

Country Lessons Learned

Country Contribution

You May Also Be Interested In

European Union

The European Union’s (EU) 2023 Voluntary National Review (VNR) marks a historic milestone as the first…

Brazil

In the VNR report, Brazilians' commitment to the principle of "leaving no one behind" guides decisions and…

Comoros

Overview

SDGs Progress Tracker

Voluntary National Reports

Country Focal Point

Location

Region

No Poverty

Zero Hunger

Good Health

Quality Education

Gender Equality

Water & Sanitation

Clean Energy

Decent Work

Industry & Infrastructure

Inequality

Sustainable Cities

Responsible Consumption

Climate Action

Life Below Water

Life on Land

Peace & Justice

Partnerships

SDGs World Progress: Moderately Off-Track

SDGs World Progress: Off-Track

SDGs World Progress: No Progress

Country Challenges

Country Lessons Learned

Country Contribution

You May Also Be Interested In

European Union

The European Union’s (EU) 2023 Voluntary National Review (VNR) marks a historic milestone as the first…

Brazil

In the VNR report, Brazilians' commitment to the principle of "leaving no one behind" guides decisions and…

South Africa

South Africa's 2024 Voluntary National Review (VNR) reaffirms its commitment to the 2030 Agenda for…