In recent years, the St George’s Cross has become increasingly visible across the UK – flying from bridges, lampposts, and homes. For some, it’s a symbol of pride and belonging. But for others, its growing association with far-right nationalism has made it feel exclusionary, even threatening.
Yet flags are not inherently divisive. They are symbols we shape with our values and actions. Just as the Union Jack once stood for wartime solidarity and the St George’s Cross for community spirit during sporting triumphs, we can reclaim these emblems to reflect a more inclusive, compassionate vision of Britain – one that welcomes diversity, champions justice, and protects our shared future.
Ten years ago today, every nation stood behind another flag—the colourful grid of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It was a rallying cry for global cooperation, a promise to “Leave No One Behind.” Today, with just five years left to meet those goals, we must ask: how can we reignite that spirit of unity and purpose?
A Global Promise at Risk
In July, UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a stark warning: “Only 35% of SDG targets are on track or making moderate progress. Nearly half are moving too slowly. And 18% are going backwards.” This sobering reality reminds us that while the goals remain ambitious, they are not out of reach—if we act now.
The SDGs are not just lofty ideals. They are a practical framework to ensure every person has access to clean water, education, decent work, and a safe environment. They are a powerful antidote to the fear and division that can arise when people feel left behind.
Local Action, Global Impact
At Global Goals Centre, we embed the SDGs into everything we do – from education and outreach to campaigns that tackle inequality and environmental harm. One example is our upcoming Better Uniforms Campaign, which aims to:
- Reduce financial hardship for families
- Minimise microplastic pollution and textile waste
- Promote ethical working conditions for suppliers
This initiative shows how small, targeted actions can ripple outward – benefiting communities, ecosystems, and global supply chains.
Harnessing Pride for Progress
National pride doesn’t have to be divisive. The UK has a long history of standing up for justice – from welcoming refugees during WWII to pioneering environmental protections and free speech. Can we now channel that same energy into protecting our people and planet?
As SDG advocate and Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai said, “We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back.” Whether it’s gender equality, climate action, or reducing inequalities, the SDGs offer a roadmap to a fairer, more sustainable world.
Join Us: Keep the Promise
We still have time. Five years is long enough to make meaningful change – but only if we act together. As António Guterres reminds us: “The Sustainable Development Goals are not a dream. They are a plan – a plan to keep our promises to the most vulnerable people, to each other, and to future generations.”
So let’s raise the SDG flag with pride. Let’s turn hope into action. And let’s make sure that when 2030 arrives, we can say we did not leave anyone behind.
Jenny Foster and Verity Jones, Global Goals Centre
25th September 2025
