Millennium development goals and construction: A research agenda

Abstract

The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) were set in a charter signed by the world's leaders in 2000 with the aim of attaining the sustainable development of the poorer countries and improving the quality of life of their peoples. Specific targets were agreed, to be achieved by 2015, including: eradication of hunger and poverty; achievement of universal primary education; reduction of child mortality; improvement of maternal health; and combating HIV/AIDS, malaria and other fatal diseases. The charter highlights the need for a global partnership for development. The MDGs have guided the work of international organizations such as the World Bank and various United Nations agencies. The construction industry can contribute to the attainment of the MDGs. A review of the literature shows that progress towards attaining the millennium goals has been slow although there are some encouraging results. Poor performance of the construction industry is a contributing factor to the lack of progress. Research is required to formulate initiatives which can be taken to enable the industry to make its due contribution.