How training the brain could boost economic growth – Financial Times

Report on the Role of Quality Journalism in Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals

Introduction: Information as a Foundational Pillar for the 2030 Agenda

Access to reliable, high-quality information is a critical enabler for the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Informed decision-making by governments, the private sector, and civil society underpins progress across all 17 goals. This report analyzes how the resources provided by a global digital journalism service contribute directly to this agenda.

Core Offerings and Direct Contributions to Key SDGs

The primary services offered align with several strategic SDGs, providing the necessary data, analysis, and global perspective to foster sustainable development.

• Global News & Analysis: This service is fundamental to SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by promoting transparency, holding institutions accountable, and ensuring public access to information. It also strengthens SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering a shared understanding of global challenges and opportunities.
• Expert Opinion & Flagship Investment Columns: In-depth analysis supports SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by providing critical insights for sustainable investment, economic policy, and technological advancement. These resources empower leaders to make decisions that are both economically sound and socially responsible.
• Multi-Platform Digital Access: Availability through dedicated applications (Android & iOS) and a digitized print edition enhances SDG 4 (Quality Education) by making complex information accessible. It also contributes to SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by broadening the reach of vital knowledge to diverse audiences worldwide.

Mechanisms for SDG Implementation and Monitoring

The specific features of the digital access package function as practical tools for stakeholders engaged in implementing and monitoring the SDGs.

1. Personalized Information Feeds (myFT): The ability to follow specific topics and set alerts allows professionals to monitor progress and challenges related to individual goals, such as SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) or SDG 13 (Climate Action).
2. Curated Newsletters: With over 20 standard and 15 premium newsletters, users can receive targeted briefings on subjects integral to the SDGs, including global economics, sustainable business, and technological innovation, thereby supporting informed action across multiple sectors.
3. Multimedia Content (Videos & Podcasts): These resources serve as powerful educational tools, breaking down complex SDG-related topics into accessible formats. This supports the broad educational mandate of SDG 4.
4. Knowledge Dissemination (Gift Articles): The capacity to share 20 articles per month directly facilitates the core objective of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by enabling the free flow of information and fostering collaborative efforts among a wider network of individuals and organizations.

Relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Based on the services offered in the article, the following SDGs are addressed:

1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

   • The article promotes a subscription to the Financial Times, which provides “quality FT journalism,” “Global news & analysis,” and “Expert opinion.” Access to reliable and independent information is a cornerstone for building transparent and accountable institutions, which is a central theme of SDG 16. An informed public can better participate in public life and hold leaders accountable, contributing to justice and peace.

2. SDG 4: Quality Education

   • The subscription offers access to a wide range of information, including “Global news & analysis” and “Expert opinion.” This content serves as a resource for lifelong learning, helping individuals acquire knowledge and skills on global issues, which aligns with the goal of providing quality education and promoting opportunities for all.

3. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

   • The article explicitly mentions access to “Lex: FT’s flagship investment column.” This type of specialized financial and economic information can empower individuals, investors, and businesses to make informed decisions, fostering economic productivity, innovation, and sustainable growth.

Specific SDG Targets

The content of the article connects to the following specific SDG targets:

• Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements.

  • The entire service described in the article is a mechanism for providing the public with access to information. By offering “Global news & analysis,” “Expert opinion,” and investigative journalism, the service directly contributes to the principle of an informed citizenry, which is the core of Target 16.10.

• Target 4.7: By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including, among others, through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship and appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development.

  • The provision of “Global news & analysis” helps individuals become more informed global citizens. Understanding complex international issues is a prerequisite for acquiring the knowledge and skills mentioned in this target.

Implied Indicators for Measuring Progress

While the article does not mention any official SDG indicators, it implies certain metrics that could be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

• Availability and Diversity of Information

  • The article lists numerous features that can be seen as indicators of information availability. These include the variety of content formats and delivery platforms, such as “Global news & analysis,” “FT App on Android & iOS,” “FT Videos & Podcasts,” and “20+ curated newsletters.” The sheer number and range of these products suggest a robust system for making information available.

• Mechanisms for Information Dissemination

  • The feature allowing subscribers to share “20 monthly gift articles” is an implied indicator for the dissemination of information. It measures the extent to which quality information is shared with the non-subscribing public, broadening its reach and contributing more widely to the goal of public access to information under Target 16.10.

Summary Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: ft.com