The SDGs provide a long-term, non-partisan framework for a more sustainable vision of urban development that provides equal opportunities for all inhabitants, promotes healthy living environments with access to green space, and is resilient in the face of everyday disasters and climatic hazards.
Goal 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries
Reducing inequalities and ensuring no one is left behind are integral to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Inequality within and among countries is a persistent cause for concern.
The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic appear to be reversing any positive trends of narrowing income inequality. The pandemic has also intensified structural and systemic discrimination. Emerging markets and developing economies are experiencing slow recoveries, widening disparities in income between countries. The number of refugees and migrant deaths worldwide reached the highest absolute number on record in 2021.
Meanwhile, the war in Ukraine rages on, forcing even more people from their homes and creating one of the largest refugee crises in recent memory.
Inequality within and between countries is a continuing concern. Despite some positive signs towards reducing inequality in some dimensions, such as reduced income inequality in some countries and preferential trade status benefiting low-income countries, inequality still continues.
COVID-19 has intensified existing inequalities and has affected the poor and the most vulnerable communities more than anyone else. It has brought to light the economic inequalities and fragile social safety nets that leave vulnerable communities to suffer the consequences of the crisis. At the same time, social, political and economic inequalities have amplified the effects of the pandemic.
On the economic front, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased global unemployment and drastically cut workers' incomes.
COVID-19 also jeopardizes what little progress has been made in gender equality and women's rights over the past few decades. In virtually every area, from health to economics, from security to social protection, the effects of COVID-19 have worsened the situation of women and girls simply as a consequence of their sex.
Inequalities are also increasing for vulnerable populations in countries with weaker health systems and in countries facing existing humanitarian crises. Refugees and migrants, as well as indigenous peoples, the elderly, people with disabilities and children are particularly at risk of exclusion. In addition, hate speech directed at vulnerable groups is on the rise.
València, through its Smart City Office, is working to improve the quality of life in urban environments, following the SDG roadmap for a more balanced and equitable urban development.
