16. In an irreversibly interconnected world, the challenges faced by any become the
challenges faced by each of us – sometimes gradually but often suddenly. However,
facing these vexed challenges is not only a burden; it is far more an opportunity to forge
new partnerships and alliances that can work together to advance the human condition.
17. The MDG experience provides compelling evidence that the international
community can be mobilized to confront such complex challenges. Governments, civil
society and a wide range of international actors coalesced behind the MDGs in a multifront
battle against poverty and disease. They generated innovative approaches, vital new
data, new resources, and new tools and technology for this struggle. Transparency was
enhanced, multilateral approaches were strengthened, and a results-based approach to
public policy was fostered. Sound public policies inspired by the MDGs, enhanced by
collective action and international cooperation, lead to remarkable successes. In two
decades since 1990, the world has halved extreme poverty, lifting 700 million out of