Cross-Sectoral Cooperation for Sustainable Futures

Cross-sectoral cooperation is important to strengthen the coherence and collaboration, as well as mobilization of resources needed for addressing systemic challenges, implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and enabling transformative change. Building or strengthening cross-sectoral multi-stakeholder groups or coalitions within SDG Target 4.7, can support equipping everyone with the knowledge, skills and competencies needed to contribute to a more sustainable and just future.

Multi-stakeholder groups or coalitions in support of SDG Target 4.7 on a local, regional and global level are essential mechanisms for promoting and implementing sustainable development. They can enable coherence and collaboration, as well as pooling of expertise and resources needed for co-creation of the relevant policy proposals linked to the implementation of SDG Target 4.7. Building and strengthening multi-stakeholder groups or coalitions require a clear basis for establishing well-defined relationships within the multi-stakeholder groups or coalitions, well-designed structures and operating procedures and strong coordination. But most importantly, they have the potential to combine key stakeholders from relevant sectors of society, which can advocate for the implementation of SDG Target 4.7 and the (co)-creation of appropriate policies that address global justice, sustainability, and key global challenges. This publication identifies the following recommendations for establishing multi-stakeholder groups or coalitions in support of SDG Target 4.7:

• Multi-stakeholder groups or coalitions in support of SDG Target 4.7 on a local, regional and global level should be established, and resources should be made available for this.
• Stakeholders wishing to establish multi-stakeholder groups in the context of SDG Target 4.7 should clearly define their main goals and objectives.
• Stakeholders involved in multi-stakeholder groups in the context of SDG Target 4.7 need to be strategically identified and cover all major societal sectors, including different components of SDG Target 4.7.
• Coalitions in support of SDG Target 4.7 should place focus on facilitation, active listening, and peer learning opportunities.
• Inclusive and flexible coordination and leadership should be applied, stressing transparency, accountability and joint commitment to the cause.