Reduced Inequality

Income inequality is on the rise, with the richest 10 percent of the population earning up to 40 percent of global income, while the poorest 10 percent earn only between 2 to 7 percent. Taking into account population growth, inequality in developing countries has increased by 11 percent. Although income inequality has risen nearly everywhere in recent decades, it has done so at different speeds, being lowest in Europe and highest in the Middle East.

These widening disparities require sound policies to empower lower-income earners and promote economic inclusion regardless of sex, race, or ethnicity. Addressing income inequality calls for global solutions, including improving the regulation and monitoring of financial markets and institutions and encouraging development assistance and foreign direct investment to regions where the need is greatest. Facilitating the safe migration and mobility of people is also key to bridging the widening divide.

This goal aims to progressively achieve and sustain income growth of the bottom 40 percent of the population at a rate higher than the national average. It seeks to empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic status. Ensuring equal opportunity and reducing inequalities of outcome involves eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices, and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and actions.

Additionally, this goal focuses on adopting fiscal, wage, and social protection policies to progressively achieve greater equality. By addressing these disparities, we can build a more inclusive and equitable world for all.