Measuring distance to the SDG targets – Mexico
Based on 103 available indicators allowing a coverage of 80 of the 169 SDG targets, Mexico has currently achieved 10 of the 2030 targets, and some of the remaining distances to targets are small (Figure 2.45). For example, Mexico has relatively low rates of alcohol consumption, low energy intensity and a low unemployment rate (targets 3.5, 7.3 and 8.5). However, a significant number of challenges remain; Mexico is still very far (i.e. more than 3 standardised distances away) from meeting some 28% of the targets. For instance, Mexico has a high prevalence of food insecurity (target 2.1), poor access to improved drinking water sources (target 6.1) and a rather low recycling rate (targets 11.6 and 12.5).
The Measuring Distance to the SDG Targets Study is intended as an analytical tool to assist countries in identifying strengths and weaknesses across the goals and targets of the 2030 Agenda, and as such differs in nature from Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) or other reporting processes. To ensure international comparability, indicators used in the Study are based on the UN Global List of Indicators on SDGs and are sourced from the UN SDG Database and OECD databases. VNRs typically use national indicators that reflect national circumstances and can be more up-to-date.
Figure 2.46, Panel A shows that Mexico is on average closest to reaching goals on Oceans (14) and Climate (13). On the other hand, Mexico is furthest from goals on Food (2), Water (6), Reducing Inequality (10) and Education (4). Relative to the OECD average, Mexico outperforms on Oceans (14). Conversely, Mexico is relatively further away on goals such as Institutions (16), Water (6), Food (2), Sustainable Production (12) and Reducing Inequality (10). However, considerable effort by the international statistical community will be key to fill the data gaps and allow a more accurate assessment (see Figure 2.46, Panel B). For example, if missing data were available on Oceans and Reducing Inequality (goals 14 and 10), Mexico’s performance on Planet and Prosperity could change from current assessments.