15 Global Challenges
The 15 Global Challenges provide a framework to assess the global and local prospects for humanity. A brief overview of each challenge, a list with actions to address them, and regional considerations are continually updated with improved insights since 1996. The 15 Global Challenges are a result of continuous research, Delphi studies, interviews, and participation of over 4,000 experts from around the world — see a short history.
The Global Challenges are transnational in nature and transInstitutional and interdisciplinary in solution. They cannot be addressed by any government or institution acting alone. They require collaborative action among governments, international organizations, corporations, universities, NGOs, and creative individuals. Although listed in sequence, Challenge 1 on sustainable development and climate change is no more or less important than Challenge 15 on global ethics. There is greater consensus about the global situation as expressed in these Challenges and the actions to address them than is evident in the news media.