In September 2000, world leaders came together at UN Headquarters in New York to adopt the United Nations Millennium Declaration, committing their nations to a new global partnership to reduce extreme poverty by the deadline of 2015. These time-bound targets have become known as the Millennium Development Goals:

• Eradicate extreme hunger and poverty
• Achieve universal primary education
• Promote gender equality and empower women
• Reduce child mortality
• Improve maternal health
• Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases
• Ensure environmental sustainability
• Build a global partnership for development

With only five years left, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has declared 2010 to be "the year of development," a time to accelerate the process in achieving these targets. 

Using the power of storytelling, the ViewChange Online Film Contest seeks to build awareness and inspire progress in achieving the MDGs. More information about the Millennium Development Goals is available from the United Nations website.

Learn more about the MDGs in this video from GOOD Magazine.