Government of Canada launches engagement process on the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals

VICTORIA, BC, Aug. 24, 2026 /CNW/ -- As the world navigates rapid technological change, shifting economic conditions and pressing social and environmental challenges, Canada is working in partnership to build a more sustainable, resilient and inclusive future.

Yesterday, the Honourable Stephanie McLean, Secretary of State (Seniors), launched Canada's nation-wide engagement for Canadians to shape Canada's third Voluntary National Review (VNR) on the Sustainable Development Goals progress. This milestone report will highlight Canada's progress toward the UN's 2030 Agenda, a framework for inclusive economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social resilience. Canada will present the VNR at the United Nations High Level Political Forum in July 2027.

The Government of Canada is seeking input from the whole-of-society as part of the engagement period running from August 21 to December 18, 2026. We invite individuals, communities and organizations to share their stories. We want to hear about successful initiatives, promising partnerships, perspectives and experiences that are advancing the 2030 Agenda. These submissions may be featured in the final report to the United Nations. Input is welcome from a diverse range of stakeholders, including governments, Indigenous partners, civil society, youth, seniors, communities, academia and the private sector.

Canada's VNR is an opportunity to assess progress, identify actions taken and highlight challenges that remain. This call for input will help identify practical actions and promising approaches that can drive progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

By embracing a diversity of voices, we enhance our ability to learn and inspire meaningful action both at home and around the world. Together, we can shape Canada's path to 2030, to build a stronger, more inclusive and sustainable future for everyone.

For more information on how to participate and share ideas, stories and insights, please visit: Share your ideas: Contribute to Canada's 2027 Voluntary National Review

Quotes

"Canada's 2027 Voluntary National Review is an opportunity to tell the story of Canada's progress on the world stage, ensuring that it reflects the voices and experiences of all Canadians. We invite people from every region, community and walk of life to share their perspectives and knowledge through our online questionnaire. Your voice matters, and your contributions will inspire action toward a more inclusive future for all."

– The Honourable Stephanie McLean, Secretary of State (Seniors)

"Canada's 2027 Voluntary National Review is an important opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals and to share our progress with the international community. As we work with partners in Canada and around the world to advance the 2030 Agenda, we invite Canadians to contribute their perspectives through the online questionnaire. Their input will help ensure that their views, diverse experiences, priorities and aspirations of people and communities across the country are well reflected."

– The Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development)

Quick facts

• The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is a 15-year global framework adopted by Canada and by all United Nations member states in 2015. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are a call to action by all countries to address today's most pressing social, economic and environmental challenges through global partnership.
• In 2018, Canada presented its first Voluntary National Review (VNR) at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in New York. This inaugural report assessed national actions, achievements, and challenges while outlining the next steps in implementing the 2030 Agenda. Canada's second VNR was presented in July 2023 at the HLPF.
• Canada is preparing to present its third Voluntary National Review (VNR) to the United Nations in July 2027. This report will highlight Canada's progress and aims to encourage important conversations about priorities, challenges and citizen engagement.
• The Victoria Forum is being held August 23 to 25, 2026, in British Columbia. It will foster valuable momentum for Canada's 2027 Voluntary National Review (VNR) through meaningful collaboration with more than 500 participants from government, academia, the private sector and civil society.

Associated links

• Taking Action Together – Canada's 2026 Annual Report on the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals
• Canada and the Sustainable Development Goals

SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada

Contacts: For media enquiries, please contact: Greg Frame, Policy Advisor and a/Press Secretary, Office of the Secretary of State (Seniors), [email protected]; Media Relations Office, Employment and Social Development Canada, 819-994-5559, [email protected], Follow us on Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/canada2030agenda)