Global Biodiversity Outlook (GBO) is the flagship publication of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). GBO-5 provides global summary of progress towards the Aichi Biodiversity Targets and sets the scene for the development of the post 2020-global biodiversity framework. It is based on a range of indicators, research studies and assessments (in particular the IPBES Global Assessment on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services), as well as the national reports provided by countries on their implementation of the CBD. This Outlook draws on the lessons learned during the first two decades of this century to identify the transitions needed if we are to realize the vision agreed by world governments for 2050, ‘Living in Harmony with Nature’.