Policy coherence for sustainable development

The Guidance Note for Implementing the OECD Recommendation on Policy Coherence for Sustainable Development aims to help Adherents and interested stakeholders in implementing the OECD Recommendation on Policy Coherence for Sustainable Development [OECD/LEGAL/0381] (PCSD Recommendation), adopted by the Council in 2010 and revised in 2019. It builds on OECD as well as international experience and efforts in advancing the global Target 17.14 on enhancing policy coherence for sustainable development for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development (2030 Agenda).

The OECD Recommendation on Policy Coherence for Sustainable Development provides a comprehensive standard to help countries equip policy-makers and key stakeholders with the necessary institutional mechanisms and policy tools to enhance policy coherence, address integrated economic, social and environmental goals, and accelerate progress towards the SDGs.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) pose challenges to public services in all countries regardless of their level of development. Their broad scope and interconnectedness, long-term commitment and contextualisation at both local and regional level require dedicated focus on government capacities to deliver. This paper analyses the major capacity areas that can support a shift from siloed policy making to more integrated approaches. It defines an ideal benchmark for assessing both the individual and organisational capacities needed by a public service to successfully deliver the SDGs.