UN highlights progress and challenges for the Dominican Republic in achieving 2030 Sustainable Goals

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic continues to face major challenges in reducing maternal mortality, teenage pregnancy, and ensuring equitable access to quality health services, issues that directly affect national well-being and the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

During a presentation at the Corripio Communications Group’s Weekly Luncheon, Julia del Carmen Sánchez, UN Resident Coordinator in the Dominican Republic, reported that 37.3% of the SDGs have been achieved, while 40% show limited progress and 22.7% have regressed. Despite these obstacles, she highlighted the country’s commitment and progress in reducing infant and neonatal mortality, areas that are moving closer to meeting 2030 targets.

Among the main setbacks, Sánchez cited the high rate of road deaths, rising obesity, declining secondary school completion, and threats to labor rights and access to drinking water. Meanwhile, indicators in education, health, and gender equality remain stagnant.

Despite these challenges, the UN acknowledged steady improvements in neonatal mortality, now at 15 deaths per 1,000 live births, approaching the target of 13.

As part of the UN’s 80th anniversary, Sánchez announced a commemorative event on October 17 in the National District to highlight the organization’s achievements in the country and recognize the Dominican Republic’s global contributions—such as its role in promoting the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, inspired by the legacy of the Mirabal sisters.