Overview
Yemen’s 2024 Voluntary National Review (VNR) provides a comprehensive overview of the country’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) status amid a protracted conflict that has reversed decades of development gains. Despite the immense challenges, the VNR reflects Yemen’s commitment to the 2030 Agenda by establishing a baseline for SDG progress, identifying key obstacles, and outlining priorities for recovery. The review was conducted through a participatory process involving government ministries, local authorities, civil society, the private sector, and international partners, ensuring diverse perspectives were considered. Faced with severe data gaps, the VNR employed forecasting and scenario analysis using the International Futures model, providing evidence-based insights to guide decision-making. Overall, the 2024 VNR demonstrates Yemen’s determination to pursue immediate humanitarian relief while laying the foundations for long-term sustainable development, signalling that even in crisis, the SDGs remain a critical framework for recovery and future planning.
Recommendations
- Strengthen Governance and the Rule of Law: Build transparent, accountable, and inclusive institutions that uphold justice and protect rights. Strong governance improves service delivery, resource management, and public trust.
- Promote Peace and Security: Prioritise conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and the protection of vulnerable groups. A secure environment enables communities to recover, rebuild, and engage in sustainable development.
- Invest in Human Capital: Expand access to quality education, skills training, and healthcare. Developing human capital increases employability, supports innovation, and strengthens national resilience.
- Encourage Sustainable Economic Growth: Diversify the economy, support entrepreneurship, and create decent jobs while protecting the environment. Sustainable growth reduces poverty and ensures long-term stability.
- Promote Climate Action and Disaster Preparedness: Implement mitigation and adaptation measures, including early warning systems and climate-resilient infrastructure. Preparedness protects lives, livelihoods, and essential assets.
- Strengthen Partnerships and International Cooperation: Work with global partners, donors, and civil society to mobilise resources and expertise. Effective collaboration ensures interventions support national priorities.
- Improve Data Collection and Monitoring: Invest in reliable statistics and monitoring systems to measure progress and guide policy decisions. Strong data systems support accountability and targeted action.
- Foster Social Inclusion and Equity: Develop policies that reduce inequalities and ensure vulnerable groups are not left behind. Inclusive development strengthens social cohesion and broadens economic participation.
- Encourage Innovation and Technology Transfer: Promote the use of modern technologies and support innovation across key sectors. Technology transfer enhances productivity, efficiency, and sustainable development outcomes.
Conclusion
Yemen’s 2024 VNR presents a candid yet hopeful overview of a country striving to advance the SDGs amid severe challenges. While years of conflict have reversed development gains and left millions in poverty and without essential services, the VNR demonstrates Yemen’s enduring commitment to the 2030 Agenda. By establishing a baseline and clearly identifying priorities for recovery, the country is laying the groundwork for phased interventions from immediate humanitarian relief to medium-term institutional rebuilding and long-term sustainable development. Achieving the SDGs will depend on peace, strengthened governance, and robust international support, but the VNR shows that with perseverance, partnerships, and targeted action, Yemen can gradually move from crisis towards recovery and resilience.