The Capability Approach and the Sustainable Development Goals

This book demonstrates how the capability approach to human development can contribute to the realisation of the 2015 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The capability approach dictates that success should not be measured by economic indicators but by people leading meaningful, free, fulfilled, happy, or satisfied lives. Drawing from a range of disciplinary perspectives, this book argues that it is vital that the focus for the SDGs should shift to benefiting the most vulnerable. Case studies from across Asia, Africa, Latin America (Global South), and the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia (Global North) consider how the capability approach can contribute as a practical framework to achieving the SDGs’ ambitions for social, economic, political, and legal progress.

Drawing on insights from a range of disciplines, this book will be of interest to researchers and practitioners from the fields of law, politics, international relations, criminology, international development, sociology, public policy, area studies, and others.

Brian Vincent Ikejiaku gained his PhD from Keele University, UK, where he was a Dandelion Scholar. He is Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, UK; he has taught in different UK Universities including Coventry University where he was Director of PG Law programme, and University of Bradford, where he was Director of Research and PGR Coordinator. He is an interdisciplinary scholar and one of the global leading scholars/experts in the field of International and Global Law (particularly international development law, and international law, international human rights, sustainable development law, and social justice). He is Editorial Member of the International Journal of Law and Society. His research cuts across law, politics/international relations, international development, and business. His work has gained impact with the UNESCO, ADB, LDi, and others. He is a Lifetime Fellow Member of International Society for Development and Sustainability (ISDS).