26 May 2016

The exhortation to ‘Leave No One Behind’ (LNOB) has become the overarching rallying cry of Agenda 2030. However, its exact meaning remains vague, and there has been little discussion of its links with SDG10 ('Reduce inequalities within and between countries'), despite the clear overlap.

Fundamentally, it will be impossible to ensure no one is left behind without taking immediate, proactive steps towards achieving SDG10 and its targets; particularly addressing discrimination, social exclusion and economic inequality - and the policies and practices which give rise to them. Inequalities between countries also need to be seriously reduced, in particular by dismantling the systemic and institutional barriers which severely constrain the policy and fiscal space of the poorest countries, where most of those people at risk of being ‘left behind’ live.

LNOB is also very resonant with the spirit and purpose of human rights, and therefore human rights principles and practice should inform the interpretation and implementation of this commitment. Most importantly, an approach to LNOB guided by human rights obligations will 1) focus on the multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination which often affect the most marginalized people; and 2) root LNOB in legal obligations regarding equality and non-discrimination, providing a much-needed extra layer of accountability.

Ultimately, despite its good intentions, LNOB risks becoming a meaningless rhetorical flourish if not linked explicitly to SDG10 and human rights, and if levels of economic inequality are not energetically tackled.