TRUMP’S POLICIES AND THEIR IMPACT ON ACHIEVING GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY

Abstract

During his presidency, Donald Trump has been criticized for undermining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their importance, with his opponents questioning the implications of this as the US pursues a more inward-looking agenda. This dissertation examines the relationship between Trump's presidency and the SDGs, highlighting the irony that the increasing inequality that fueled his campaign is the very goal the SDGs aim to address. Some of Trump's campaign pledges directly relate to the SDGs, and his administration has implemented policies that could hinder progress towards them. For example, Trump's protectionist agenda has put the clean energy market at risk, and his administration has rolled back environmental regulations, which could increase greenhouse gas emissions and negatively impact the SDGs. Furthermore, Trump's disregard for the SDGs has led to a decline in business commitment to the SDGs, as seen in the decreased mention of sustainable development in corporate annual reports. In conclusion, Trump's presidency has had a negative impact on the SDGs, undermining global collaboration and jeopardizing the achievement of these ambitious goals.