Convergence or Divergence? Comparing the Evolution of SDG Implementation in EU and ASEAN Member States

Abstract

This study investigates the longitudinal trajectory of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) implementation within the European Union (EU) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), exploring the potential for policy convergence or divergence over time. Through a mixed-method approach that analyzes Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) and includes interviews with key representatives, the research employs a multiple case study design to identify patterns in SDG implementation across five EU countries (Netherlands, Greece, Germany, Denmark, Latvia) and five ASEAN countries (Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, Lao PDR). Through the study, first, it is found that the EU’s implementation of SDGs is characterized by greater divergence, whereas ASEAN exhibits higher convergence. Second, ASEAN shows the strongest convergence in environmental SDGs, contrasting with the EU’s divergence in this area. Although the European Green Deal has led to unified efforts in circular initiatives, environmental policies in the EU remain divergent in other respects. Third, both regions are experiencing a decline in funding for environmental SDGs. Fourth, the EU’s lack of a unified regional SDG agenda contributes to national policy divergence, whereas ASEAN’s regional SDG vision fosters policy convergence among its members. These findings underscore the necessity of having financing mechanisms explicitly directed towards achieving the SDGs. They also highlight the potential for mutual learning among regions, emphasizing that, despite the traditional donor-recipient dynamic between the Global North and South, peer learning should be enhanced globally, including between the EU and ASEAN regions. Additionally, emphasizing the importance of regional SDG Agendas, this research advocates for unified yet localized sustainable development pathways. Ultimately, the future of global goal-setting hinges on embracing and integrating localized goals into the broader framework.