ABSTRACT
Network analysis offers a systematic understanding of relations within and among Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The analysis builds on the assumption that the nodes in a network are not independent, exemplifying the integrated and indivisible nature of the 2030 Agenda. Various methodologies for conducting network analysis, primarily expert elicitation or statistical correlations, are employed to analyze these networks. Centrality measures and other network metrics identify key influencers and levers within the SDG system, while also providing insights into synergies and trade-offs among goals, targets, indicators or actors. However, challenges such as data availability, scalability and cause-effect identification remain, limiting the scope of analysis. Future applications of SDG network analysis should focus on close collaboration between researchers, stakeholders and policymakers for evidence-based policy planning to advance the SDGs, as their interactions are location-specific and require implementation at various levels.
