A Multi‐Dimensional Framework to Assess Sustainable Development: A Cross‐Country Analysis

Abstract

Reliable and transparent measurement frameworks are essential for effective sustainability policymaking. However, many widely used composite indices rely on subjective weighting schemes and compensatory aggregation methods, which may undermine cross‐country comparability and policy relevance. This study applies a Pareto‐based, non‐compensatory composite index methodology to reassess sustainable development across 128 countries. Using a parsimonious set of 18 indicators spanning economic, social, and environmental dimensions, the study constructs a Sustainable Development Index (SDI) that reduces reliance on arbitrary methodological choices while preserving the multidimensional structure of sustainability. The analysis is complemented by K‐means clustering to identify distinct country groups based on their sustainability profiles, revealing heterogeneous development patterns. To enhance policy relevance, cluster‐level SDI results are analysed alongside Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index scores, providing insights into how underlying structural conditions relate to observed SDG performance. The findings support the development of context‐sensitive, cluster‐specific policy recommendations aimed at accelerating progress toward the 2030 Agenda.