What are the MDGs?

The MDGs are a set of eight ambitious goals, established by the United Nations in 2000 by 189 nations, that provide a road map for a safer, interconnected, more sustainable planet for all of us. Specific targets and indicators have been set for each of the goals, to be achieved by 2015.

These goals, and the assumptions behind how they would be achieved, were laid out before the advent of the social web, pervasive broadband, and a host of other enabling technologies that can mobilize the planet to coordinated action. With social media at our disposal we - the interconnected citizens of the world - can create universal excitement and catalyze the commitment needed to meet this challenge - Yes, U Can.

Currently, only government and limited private sector entities are involved in mapping the fulfillment of these goals, and with limited time remaining, it is clear governments alone cannot reach the deadline.