MDG#8 Develop a global partnership for development

The last Goal in some ways may be the most significant: Without key partnerships between developing and developed countries, the previous seven Goals may not be achievable. Great opportunities for growth and development exist in today's fast-changing global economy, but many poor countries have been left behind, lacking access to new technologies as well as the resources to participate in the globalization process. In order to achieve these Goals, a new global partnership for development - based on stronger policies, good governance and a real sense of shared responsibility - among stakeholders in both rich and poor countries is imperative.

Support provided by such partnerships would be most effective in reducing poverty when it is given to poor countries with good economic policies and sound governance. But in some cases, aid is tied to purchases of goods and services approved by the donor country. Such restrictions reduce the chance for sustained progress and set conditions on universal responsibility for the gain of personal profit. Goal 8 suggests the elimination of such conditions. It also advocates for easing the burden of debt on Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) and for reducing barriers to trade between developed and underdeveloped countries.

Targets:

• Develop further an open trading and financial system that includes a commitment to good governance, development and poverty reduction - nationally and internationally.
• Address the least developed countries' special needs, and the special needs of landlocked and small-island developing states.
• Deal comprehensively with developing countries' debt problems.
• Develop decent and productive work for youth.
• In cooperation with pharmaceutical companies, provide access to affordable essential drugs in developing countries.
• In cooperation with the private sector, make available the benefits of new technologies - especially information and communications technologies.