At the global level, the UNSDG serves as a high-level forum for joint policy formation and decision-making. It guides, supports, tracks and oversees the coordination of development operations in 162 countries and territories.

The UNSDG meets twice a year under the chairmanship of Deputy Secretary-General Ms. Amina J. Mohammed, who chairs the UNSDG on behalf of the UN Secretary-General. The UNDP Administrator, Mr. Achim Steiner, serves as Vice-Chair of the Group. The Development Coordination Office (DCO) serves as the Secretariat of the Group.

The Group is composed of the executive heads of UNSDG member entities. The UNSDG Vice-chair also convenes the UNSDG Core Group comprised of DESA, FAO, ILO, IOM, OHCHR, UNDP, UNEP, UNESCO, UNFPA, UNHCR, UNICEF, UN Women, WFP, WHO and the rotating chair of the Regional Economic Commissions.