Something To Consider
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When incorporating the SDGs into the classroom, you must take into account one key criticism that has been raised regarding the 17 goals. As you have learned, the SDGs were created by the United Nations—an international organization, which some believe places Western values at its centre. Some scholars raise critiques of certain goals. For example, the effort to advance the “Global South” has been compared to the colonial era as both derive “from the same norm and its divisions” (Ziai, 2016, p. 33 – 34) and it has been called “Eurocentric.”
As educators, we understand that every set of ideals has its imperfections. Acknowledge and voice criticisms of the SDGs, and use them as entry points to problem-solve and fine-tune. Consider posing questions for discussion like:
- Is the United Nations the ultimate power in creating a better society?
- Do the SDGs imply that some parts of the world are subordinate?
- How can we make change together?
Feel free to use the following resources to guide your discussion: Development Discourse and Global History