Decent Work
Fair wages, safe environments, and equal opportunities.
Economic Growth
Sustainable growth that benefits all communities.
Innovation
Entrepreneurship and skills development drive progress.
SDG 8 promotes inclusive and sustainable economic growth, productive employment and decent work for all. SDG 8 is about helping the economy grow in a way that includes everyone. It focuses on creating jobs that are fair, safe, and offer good pay. The goal also supports innovation and strong businesses. It makes sure that economic growth helps people and protects the environment, rather than harming them.
Fair wages, safe environments, and equal opportunities.
Sustainable growth that benefits all communities.
Entrepreneurship and skills development drive progress.
% Employment Goal
Target Year
Opportunities
SDG 8 was introduced in 2015 as part of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Since then, countries have been working to meet goals like lowering unemployment, stopping forced and child labor, and improving workers' rights. Key steps include global efforts to protect workers, increase access to banking services, and help small and medium businesses. The target is to reach these goals by 2030.
Employment refers to people who have paid work, either full-time or part-time. It provides income, skills, and stability, helping individuals support themselves and contribute to the economy.
Youth are the ages 15 - 24 which have an unemployment rate of 15.2% with about 702,000 people in this category.
Economic Equality means that everyone has fair access to a career and get paid well regardless of who they are.
“Decent work is not only about employment — it is about dignity, equality, and opportunity.”
Everyone, from individuals to businesses and communities, has a part to play in reaching SDG 8. We can support companies that treat people fairly, push for better working conditions, and help make sure everyone has a fair chance in school and work. Buying wisely, speaking out against unfair treatment, and supporting laws that protect workers all help build an economy that works for all.