Leaving no one behind | Public Institutions

What is it?

The principle of "Leaving no one behind" (LNOB) entails that, to ensure that all human beings can fulfil their potential in dignity and equality, public policies are to take into account the needs and aspirations of all segments of society, including the poorest and most vulnerable and those subject to discrimination. It also requires combating discrimination and rising inequalities within and amongst countries, and their root causes. It is grounded in the UN’s normative standards that are foundational principles of the UN Charter, international human rights law and national legal systems across the world.

The UN approach to LNOB is set out in the Shared Framework on Leaving No One Behind: Equality and Non-Discrimination at the Heart of Sustainable Development, endorsed by the Chief Executives Board in November 2016. This includes a shared framework for action to ensure the UN system puts the imperative to combat inequalities and discrimination at the forefront of UN efforts to support implementation of the 2030 Agenda. [Source: UN Sustainable Development Group]

Why is it important?

LNOB is the central, transformative promise of the 2030 Agenda as none of its SDGs can be attained without addressing the plight of the weakest countries and the poor, who are disproportionately affected by global crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. It represents the unequivocal commitment of all UN Member States to eradicate poverty in all its forms, end discrimination and exclusion, and reduce the inequalities and vulnerabilities that undermine the potential of individuals and of humanity as a whole.

Commonly used strategies

Commonly used strategies to operationalize the principle of LNOB include the promotion of equitable fiscal and monetary policy, promotion of social equity, data disaggregation, and systematic follow-up and review.

What are some key insights for governments?

LNOB compels us to focus on discrimination and inequalities (often multiple and intersecting) that undermine the agency of people as holders of rights. Many of the barriers that people face in accessing services, resources and equal opportunities are not simply accidents of fate or a lack of availability of resources, but rather the result of discriminatory laws, policies and social practices that leave particular groups of people behind.

Technical guidance for government officials

	CEPA strategy guidance note on promotion of social equity
	CEPA strategy guidance note on data disaggregation (forthcoming)
	CEPA strategy guidance note on systematic follow-up and review
	CEPA strategy guidance note on promotion of equitable fiscal and monetary policy (forthcoming)