The Common Good in the 2030 Agenda: An In-Depth Analysis

by Oliviero Casale

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by the United Nations in September 2015, represents a global strategic framework aimed at transforming societies and promoting universal well-being. A central element of this agenda is the concept of the "common good," a principle that guides the actions of public administrations and other involved actors. This article delves into how the document "Training Civil Services on the 2030 Agenda: Skills Development for Working Towards the Common Good" addresses the concept of the common good, highlighting its implications at both national and global levels.

The Common Good: National and Global

The concept of the common good is not limited to national borders. According to the document, national administrations must work towards broad and inclusive well-being within their territories, opposing individual benefit-seeking. However, the national common good must necessarily include global considerations to be truly sustainable. Globalization has increased the interconnection between nations, making an integrated approach that considers the global implications of national actions indispensable. This is particularly evident in environmental issues, such as resource management and climate change, which require international cooperation and a global perspective to be effectively addressed.

Integrated Sustainability: Environment, Economy, and Society

Sustainability is a key concept that links the environment, economy, and society. The document emphasizes that administrations must think integratively to address these interconnected dimensions of development. For example, regulating the use of natural resources requires a vision that goes beyond national borders, also considering global impacts. Economic activity, often organized in regional or global value chains, significantly impacts current development pathways, necessitating governance that promotes sustainable practices and considers the environmental and social implications of economic policies.

The 2030 Agenda as the Embodiment of the Global Common Good

The 2030 Agenda is described as the best current embodiment of the global common good. Formally agreed upon by United Nations member states, this agenda represents an inclusive and proactive strategy that involves a multitude of actors, including the public and private sectors, entrepreneurs, intellectuals, academics, and civil society organizations. The overall intention of the 2030 Agenda is transformative, aimed at changing how people live, interact, and conduct business. This requires significant policy and coordination efforts from all stakeholders, particularly the civil service, which must strive for the common good both nationally and globally.

The Role of Public Administrations

Public administrations play a crucial role in pursuing the common good. They must interpret situations and apply rules with contextual sensitivity, collect data and evidence on policy effects, and communicate these policies clearly and effectively. The document emphasizes that administrations should not blindly follow the letter of the law but should rationally consider the goals and means to achieve them. This approach requires continuous training and skill enhancement for public officials to address the complex challenges of the 2030 Agenda.

Cultural Change and Training

Achieving the common good necessitates cultural and mindset changes among public officials. This includes not only technical training but also the development of a motivating narrative that addresses existing mentalities and attitudes. Training should promote new approaches to policy planning and administration, creating capacities to tackle complex problems and facilitate coordination among various actors and levels of government. A key element is training for managing public processes and coordinating diverse stakeholders.

Inclusivity and Leaving No One Behind

The principle of "Leaving no one behind" is central to the 2030 Agenda, requiring intensified attention to vulnerable populations and neglected regions. This principle, aimed at reducing inequalities and promoting social justice, is closely linked to the concept of the common good.

Participation of All Sectors of Society

The Agenda calls for a whole-of-society approach, mobilizing all capacities, knowledge, and expertise to develop context-specific solutions to development challenges. This implies cooperation between government, the private sector, civil society, and local communities, all working together for the common good.

Conclusion

The concept of the common good, as outlined in the 2030 Agenda and elaborated in the examined document, represents a fundamental principle for public policies at both national and global levels. Public administrations are called upon to interpret and implement this concept through sustainable practices and an integrated approach that considers the global implications of local actions. Training and skill development for public officials are crucial to addressing the complex challenges of our time and promoting shared and lasting well-being for all communities worldwide.

In summary, the document "Training Civil Services on the 2030 Agenda" offers a clear and detailed vision of how the concept of the common good can be pursued through a combination of integrated policies, continuous training, and a global commitment to sustainability and justice.