One of the important underlying issues is our position with respect to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). A number of participants have commented on the need to have locally owned goals adapted to our reality and priorities. This seems to be a point of consensus so it is likely we will want to go through a process of determining what those goals should be, how we should measure and monitor them, or whether we should take a more holistic approach.

As a starting point, however, it will be useful to look at the MDGs and the issues surrounding them. A summary of the goals is listed below:

The Millennium Development Goals:

Goal 1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger
Goal 2: Achieve universal primary education
Goal 3: Promote gender equality and empower women
Goal 4: Reduce child mortality
Goal 5: Improve maternal health
Goal 6: Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases
Goal 7: Ensure environmental sustainability
Goal 8: Develop a global partnership for development