Textual Cohesion and Inter-connectedness in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)-Related Speeches and Reports

This study explores the textual cohesion and inter-connectedness within the discourse of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), providing a linguistic perspective on how these complex relationships are constructed and communicated in official UN documents and related texts. Through a mixed-methods approach combining corpus-assisted textual analysis with insights from Critical Discourse Analysis, the research demonstrates that the language of the SDGs is meticulously crafted to convey a message of profound interconnectedness and indivisibility. The analysis of word frequencies, keyword-in-context occurrences, and lexical cohesion patterns reveals consistent linguistic linkages between various SDG themes. Terms related to environmental sustainability, social equity, and economic development frequently co-occur, reinforcing the understanding that progress in one area is contingent upon progress in others. This textual integration serves to guide policymakers and stakeholders towards holistic and synergistic approaches to implementation, moving away from traditional siloed interventions. Furthermore, the study highlights the rhetorical strategies employed in the SDG discourse to emphasize universality, urgency, and shared responsibility. The framing of the SDGs as a "universal call to action" and the frequent use of verbs denoting accelerated action underscore the imperative for global collaboration and concerted efforts. These linguistic choices are not merely descriptive; they are performative, aiming to mobilize diverse actors and foster a collective commitment to the 2030 Agenda. While the textual cohesion in official documents is robust, the study also acknowledges the potential gap between discursive representation and real-world action. Translating linguistic insights into practical policy coherence and effective communication strategies remains a critical challenge. Future research could further explore the evolution of SDG discourse over time and investigate how different communication channels adapt and convey these textual inter-connectedness to diverse audiences. In conclusion, this research reaffirms the vital role of language in shaping the understanding and implementation of global policy frameworks.