U.N. Decade of Action

Abstract

In resolution A/RES/74/4, the U.N. Nations General Assembly adopted the Decade of Action to accelerate the achievement of the SDGs by 2030. The Decade of Action calls to improve actual efforts to accomplish the 2030 agenda for governments, civil society, the private sector, and other stakeholders. This call is the last opportunity we have to reach SDG9. Still, unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected all industrial sectors, which is unlikely to achieve inclusive and sustainable industrialisation by 2030. This chapter illustrates the adverse effects that the construction, manufacturing, and hospitality industries have suffered since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and how they gradually have returned to the new normal. It also shows the case of the industry that could be considered the ‘champion in the covid era’, the high-tech industry. Predominantly in covid times, high-tech firms have been a synonym for technological innovation, which is an absolute necessity to encourage competitiveness in all industrial sectors, mainly in essential activities. Finally, the chapter is closed with an invitation to reflect on the fundamental principle of SDG9, which is sustainable industrialisation, but above all, inclusivity. SDG9 cannot be considered achieved until its benefits are transferred to the countries in the global south.