There are many challenges facing countries and their people in 2004 and beyond. While some governments continue to focus on peace and security issues, many of the poorest people will continue to hope for food, housing, healthcare, freshwater and a clean environment. The debates over climate change, GMOs, free trade, and other issues related to sustainable development are unlikely to abate in the coming year. International cooperation and multilateralism on these and other issues are imperative if the three pillars of sustainable development – environmental protection, economic development and social development – are to remain firmly in place.There are many challenges facing countries and their people in 2004 and beyond. While some governments continue to focus on peace and security issues, many of the poorest people will continue to hope for food, housing, healthcare, freshwater and a clean environment. The debates over climate change, GMOs, free trade, and other issues related to sustainable development are unlikely to abate in the coming year. International cooperation and multilateralism on these and other issues are imperative if the three pillars of sustainable development – environmental protection, economic development and social development – are to remain firmly in place.