Introduction: Sustainable development represents an important objective both for Romania and for the European Union as a whole. Aim: The choice of this research topic is motivated by the importance of achieving sustainable development. In this sense, we have identified and analyzed the fundamental elements that are the basis of sustainable development. Method: The evaluation of specialized literature was the starting point in this research. I used the method of theoretical research and the method of reading the specialized bibliography, to outline the conceptual aspects addressed in the paper. We also carried out the comparative analysis of Romania, as an emerging country of Central and Eastern Europe, with the other countries of the European Union in order to know the state of sustainable development of our country. Findings: To begin with, we made an introduction to the concept of sustainable development. We then looked at the Sustainable Development Goals, as they are the starting point for a sustainable future. Studies on the measurement of sustainable development must be included in this research, because the objectives and targets of sustainable development are monitored with the help of indicators. Originality and value: The originality and novelty were achieved through a practical study in the emerging countries of Central and Eastern Europe in the EU, which aims to bring substantiated clarifications in the context of sustainable development and can contribute to reducing the gap between advanced countries and developing economies from the European Union.