The SDGs are a universal set of goals, targets and indicators that UN member states will be expected to use to frame their agendas and political policies over the next 15 years. The SDGs follow, and expand on, the millennium development goals (MDGs), which were agreed by governments in 2000, and expired in 2015.

Where the MDGs were considered as being too narrow, the SDGs are intentionally much broader and detailed. The aim of these post-2015 goals was also to include as much external feedback and contribution as possible. To do so, the UN conducted the largest consultation programme in its history to gauge opinion on what the SDGs should include.

Alongside an open working group - with representatives from 70 countries – the UN conducted a series of global conversations and launched an online survey asking people to prioritise the areas they’d like to see addressed in the goals.

Among these areas, a specific stand-alone target was included in the Health Goal to reduce road traffic fatalities by 50% by 2020. On top of this landmark achievement for the global road safety community, a target on sustainable urban transport in the Cities Goal has also been approved.

The final wording of the targets is as follows:

Goal 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages:

3.6. By 2020, halve the number of global deaths and injuries from road traffic accidents

The road safety target figures alongside other major priorities including maternal mortality, AIDS and universal health coverage in the Health Goal.

Goal 11: Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable:

11.2. By 2030, provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all, improving road safety, notably by expanding public transport, with special attention to the needs of those in vulnerable situations, women, children, persons with disabilities and older persons

UNGA Road Safety Resolution