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VOL. 8, ISSUE 1 (2026)
A sociological study on social barriers to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors
Dr. Nagaraju R K
Abstract
While the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are often framed as
technical or economic challenges, their success is fundamentally rooted in the
social fabric of implementing nations. This thesis investigates the
sociological barriers-defined as systemic inequalities, institutional inertia, and
entrenched cultural norms-that impede the 2030 Agenda.
Utilizing Institutional Theory and the concept of “social
scaffolding,” this research analyses how existing power structures and
discriminatory social pillars hinder goals related to poverty (SDG 1), gender
equality (SDG 5), and reduced inequalities (SDG 10). Using a mixed-methods
approach, the study combines qualitative case studies of regional
sustainability initiatives with a comparative examination of institutional
frameworks. According to preliminary research, institutional weaknesses and
cultural-cognitive reluctance to drastic societal change are more likely to
impede progress than a lack of technology. According to the study's findings,
policy initiatives that address the underlying sociological causes of exclusion
and resistance must replace top-down technical solutions with
"bottom-up" social integration if sustainable development is to be
successful.
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Pages:74-78
How to cite this article:
Dr. Nagaraju R K "A sociological study on social barriers to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals". International Journal of Sociology and Political Science, Vol 8, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 74-78
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