They will replace the 8 Millennium Development Goals, which have been place since 2000, after first being mooted at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro.
World leaders, heads of global financial institutions and other dignitaries have been converging on New York, where the UN is set to launch the new goals framework with its stated aim to end poverty and build a life of dignity for all.
Joining them will be Pope Francis, who is due to address the UN General Assembly during a visit timed for the global gathering.
