Towards the Localization of the SDGs

This report presents evidence of the involvement of Local and Regional Governments (LRGs) in the ‘localization’ of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It complements the Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) and ‘Main Messages’ submitted by 103 countries to the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in 2016, 2017 and 2018. It delivers first-hand information from LRGs in 61 different countries. It is the second in an annual series coinciding with national reports to the HLPF and provides an update on the active engagement of LRGs in the dissemination and implementation of the SDGs at the local level.

The report is facilitated by United Cities and Local Governments within the framework of the Global Observatory on Decentralization and Local Democracy (GOLD) and on behalf of the Global Taskforce of Local and Regional Governments, a consultation mechanism of the constituency that gathers over 25 networks. The report counts with special contributions from many cities and associations around the world.

In the majority of countries that reported to the HLPF in 2016, 2017 and 2018, LRGs have key competencies in policy areas relating to the achievement of all SDGs, and particularly SDGs 6, 7, 11, 12, 15 and 17. This report pays special attention to SDG 11 and its interlinkages with other goals, which has special relevance for the LRG constituency. The report also demonstrates the role of local initiatives in mainstreaming the objective to ‘leave no one behind’.