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Evaluating the efficiency of countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals using data envelopment analysis
All UN member states are committed to achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, but global progress has fallen seriously behind schedule. This article proposes a multi-indicator framework to evaluate national SDG performance by integrating outcome-based indicators (i.e., SDG scores), trend-based indicators (i.e., estimated years), and efficiency-oriented indicators (i.e., static and dynamic efficiency) that account for heterogeneous realistic constraints. Methodologically, SDG scores are calculated based on the SDG Index, estimated years are derived by linear least squares fitting, static efficiency is measured via DEA-CCR and DEA-BCC models, and dynamic efficiency is assessed through the global DEA-Malmquist model. Applying this framework to 132 countries from 2011 to 2023 reveals significant heterogeneity in SDG performance across countries, which is further reflected in differences by development level, geographic region, and participation in international organizations. The results indicate a significant gap between current trajectories and the 2030 SDG targets, a gap that is particularly pronounced in the developing countries. Developed countries maintain higher baseline performances but show signs of decelerating improvement. Developing countries, meanwhile, are characterized by faster efficiency gains, yet they continue to grapple with deep-seated realistic constraints. The study underscores the urgent need for accelerated action, enhanced global cooperation, and robust monitoring and governance mechanisms within multilateral organizations to translate constrained resources into more effective and equitable SDG outcomes.