The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as set by the United Nations are considered a universal benchmark for development around the world. But, is it realistic to have such a benchmark for countries/regions whose societies are structured within different local contexts? During this discussion, the panelists; Dr. Fred Muhumuza (Makerere University), Dr. Ingrid Kvangraven (University of York), and Prof. Dr. Aram Ziai (University of Kassel) share their perspectives on what development should be, the relevance of the SDGs, and what a new development paradigm could look like in light of the COVID-19 pandemic for countries both in the global North (Developed) and global South (Developing).