The importance of institutional differences among countries in SDGs achievement: A cross-country empirical study

Based upon the quintuple helix model (Carayannis et al., 2012; Carayannis & Campbell, 2010), this research analyzes whether the differences in the level of achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) among 64 countries worldwide can be explained by a series of 19 institutional variables related to five dimensions such as cultural orientation, economic development, the education-labor system, the political-legal system and innovation. Our results highlight the crucial role of public policies in attaining SDGs through the improvement of institutional quality, governance systems and economic freedom as well as with the promotion of education and the innovation ecosystem. In this regard, the adoption of the quintuple helix model through the interrelation of the government, Universities and the private sector is deemed relevant in order to face the social and environmental challenges posed by the SDGs.

Automated summary

Based on the quintuple helix model, this research examines whether the differences in the achievement level of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) among 64 countries can be explained by a series of institutional variables. The results emphasize the importance of public policies in achieving the SDGs through improving institutional quality, governance systems, economic freedom, education, and the innovation ecosystem. The adoption of the quintuple helix model, involving the government, universities, and the private sector, is considered relevant for addressing the social and environmental challenges posed by the SDGs.