UN proposes new global progress compass beyond GDP
via Le Matin3 min read
The United Nations' High-Level Independent Expert Group on "Beyond GDP" has introduced a new global dashboard in New York, aiming to supplement traditional economic indicators. This initiative stems from the recognition that Gross Domestic Product GDP alone is insufficient for measuring societal progress. The report, titled "Counting What Counts: A Progress Compass for People and the Planet," is the culmination of work by 14 international experts appointed in May 2025 by the UN Secretary-General. These experts, specializing in economics, statistics, development, and public policy from various global regions, were tasked with developing indicators that better reflect contemporary social and environmental realities. The document proposes universal indicators to integrate dimensions often overlooked, such as inequality, health, education, security, and environmental quality. For decades, GDP has been the primary reference for evaluating state economic performance and guiding public policies. However, UN experts highlight its major limitations, noting that an economy can show sustained growth while experiencing worsening social divides or accelerated environmental degradation. Nora Lustig, co-chair of the Expert Group, emphasized that "GDP ignores inequalities and poverty. It does not account for environmental degradation. It misses the non-monetary dimensions of well-being." The report responds to a mandate from UN member states within the "Pact for the Future," adopted in 2024.
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