Sustainable Development Solutions Network

In 2012, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon launched the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) to mobilize global scientific and technological expertise to promote practical problem solving for sustainable development, including the design and implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Following their adoption, we are now committed to supporting the implementation of the SDGs at local, national, and global scales. We aim to accelerate joint learning and help to overcome the compartmentalization of technical and policy work by promoting integrated approaches to the interconnected economic, social, and environmental challenges confronting the world. The SDSN works closely with United Nations agencies, multilateral financing institutions, the private sector, and civil society. The organization and governance of the SDSN aims to enable a large number of leaders from all regions and a diverse backgrounds to participate in the development of the network, while at the same time ensuring effective structures for decision making and accountability. The SDSN Leadership Council acts as the board of the SDSN. A smaller Executive Committee oversees financial, programmatic, and other operational matters. Twelve Thematic Networks involving experts from around the world lead the technical work of the SDSN. Members of the SDSN are part of the SDSN Assembly and can participate in National or Regional SDSNs. A small Academic Advisory Committee works on issues relating to education and curriculum design. The SDSN Secretariat is hosted by the SDSN Association and has offices in Paris and New York.