SESRIC launched the eighth edition of its report, “Towards the Achievement of Prioritised Sustainable Development Goals in OIC Countries”, during the 42nd Session of the Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (COMCEC), held on 31 October–3 November 2026 in İstanbul, Türkiye, and shared its key findings on OIC countries’ progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with the participating Member States.

According to the report, some improvements have been recorded in SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions). These advances include a decline in the proportion of the population living below the international poverty line from 20% in 2015 to 16.7% in 2024, a reduction in the maternal mortality ratio at more than twice the global rate, and a fall in under-five mortality from 62 to 53 deaths per 1,000 live births. Education completion rates and parity between girls and boys have also improved in many OIC countries, alongside expanded access to electricity and internet connectivity. Nevertheless, these gains remain insufficient to achieve the 2030 targets at the aggregate OIC level.

Meanwhile, progress has largely stagnated in SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Economic growth and labour productivity remain below the levels required to meet the relevant 2030 targets, while industrialisation and research and development continue to face substantial gaps. Furthermore, data gaps limit a comprehensive assessment of progress towards SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). These challenges are compounded by persistent global uncertainties, including continued conflict and instability in parts of the Middle East, which have disrupted economies, affected livelihoods, and deepened humanitarian needs.

The 2026 report underscores the urgent need for renewed commitment, strengthened cooperation, and decisive policy action to address persistent and emerging challenges. By providing an evidence-based assessment of progress, the report aims to support OIC countries in identifying priority areas for intervention and accelerating efforts towards a more prosperous, equitable, resilient, and sustainable future for all.

Online Electronic Version

• Towards the Achievement of Prioritised Sustainable Development Goals in OIC Countries 2026 (English) (Arabic) (French)