On 7 May 2026, the High-Level Expert Group (HLEG) on Beyond GDP released its report, the first global blueprint to move beyond GDP. This blueprint places people and the planet at the centre of decision-making and offers a way to redefine progress.
As international discussions on Beyond GDP progress, countries are increasingly seeking practical support to measure progress beyond economic output and integrate these metrics into policymaking. The United Nations is launching a new phase of work to support country-led experimentation, foster peer learning and generate evidence to inform the further development and use of Beyond GDP metrics.
What the initiative offers
Countries will have opportunities to test and apply Beyond GDP approaches tailored to their priorities and capacities.
Support may include assessing data availability, compiling indicators, strengthening statistical systems and exploring how metrics can inform policy decisions.
Who can engage, and how?
All interested Member States are invited to express their interest by completing the country engagement form, outlining their priorities, existing initiatives, capacity gaps and potential support needs. National statistical offices, policymakers and other relevant stakeholders are encouraged to contribute to the process.
Not a Member State but interested in partnering with us? Contact us at [email protected] to explore opportunities for collaboration.
News
UNCTAD’s Role and Contributions
UNCTAD plays an active role in advancing the Beyond GDP agenda at the global level. It serves as part of the co-secretariat of the High-Level Expert Group on Beyond GDP, contributing to analytical, statistical, and policy expertise.
UNCTAD is also piloting the indicators proposed by HLEG to bridge the implementation gap at the country level. In this exercise, UNCTAD collaborates and coordinates with a range of UN and non-UN partners.
UNCTAD is also part of the Global Alliance of Beyond GDP under the Seville Platform for Action (SPA), supporting the adoption of indicators through country pilots as instruments for systemic learning.
Notably, UNCTAD’s Inclusive Growth Index combines economic performance with indicators on income distribution, living conditions, and environmental sustainability. The index highlights significant disparities across and within countries, demonstrating that higher GDP growth does not necessarily translate into inclusive development outcomes.
Publications
Featured Podcast
Beyond GDP: Is it time to end our obsession with economic growth?
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