SDG Steering Effect on Performance and Commitments: Comparative Evidence in G20 Countries Over the Period 2015–25

Abstract This paper assesses the steering effect of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on outcomes and commitments among G20 countries (2015–25). Three phases emerge: take-off (2016–20), mainstreaming during crises (2021–24), and recent fatigue (2025), marked by reduced engagement and opposition, notably from the United States. While China, India, Indonesia, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia show sustained progress, SDG advancement remains uneven, with stronger performance on socioeconomic than environmental goals. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and rising geopolitical tensions, G20 engagement through Voluntary National Reviews and SDG references in G20 declarations remained robust until 2024. Although U.S. opposition threatens global momentum, coalitions of willing states and subnational actors may continue to drive forward SDG outcomes and commitments.