Connecting Buddhadhamma Principles to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

This academic article aims to explain Buddhist principles in relation to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It draws upon key Buddhist teachings, including the Four Virtues, Bhojana mattaññuta, tisikkha, Idappaccayata, and Sangahavatthu 4. These principles are linked with the definitions of the 17 SDGs across five dimensions: social, economic, environmental, peace and institutions, and partnership for development. The article uses a literature review method to study essential Buddhist principles and then analyzes their connection to the SDGs to identify how these teachings relate to sustainable development. This connection highlights the role of Buddhist principles in supporting the achievement of the SDGs, emphasizing sustainable, ethical living and the consideration of social and environmental impacts. By focusing on ethics, mindful living, and interdependence, this study proposes how Buddhist principles can be applied to enhance sustainable development goals. The findings offer new perspectives on each SDG through Buddhist teachings, shifting the focus from outcome-oriented goals to a process-oriented, ethically aware approach. This shift creates a framework for public and private sectors, as well as individuals, to achieve the core objective of the SDGs which is to leave no one behind, thereby ensuring the stability and sustainability of individuals, communities, and Thai society.