<h1>Neglected SDG targets risk leaving vulnerable populations behind; targeted environmental and nutrition policies needed through international cooperation.</h1> The study finds a polarised global landscape in SDG progress with country clusters specialising in certain targets while leaving 'orphaned' indicators-especially environmental quality, carbon emissions, biodiversity loss and malnutrition impacts-chronically neglected; network analysis of longitudinal data maps comparative advantages and disadvantages across SDG pillars and recommends targeted remedial policies and international cooperation to address underperformance and promote balanced progress.