TOWARDS THE LOCALIZATION OF THE SDGs
Highlights
Background The fourth report of the local and regional governments (LRGs) to the HLPF: Towards the Localization of the SDGs (2020) has been produced at a difficult time, when the world is suffering the effects of a global pandemic. The impact of this crisis on the social and economic fabric of our communities is, however, still difficult to measure. Within this context, the words “solidarity” and “cooperation” take on an even more relevant meaning. This was the message of the UN Secretary-General in his report to the HLPF and it reflects the feelings of our constituency, based on the experiences of numerous cities and territories. The transformative framework of the universal development agendas remains essential for a more sustainable future. Local and regional governments from all over the world are reinstating their strong commitment to achieve the transformation that their societies call for after the pandemic through the potential of the SDGs and the universal development agendas. In this context, the report analyses the evolution of the process of SDG localization in cities and territories throughout the world, particularly focusing on the 47 countries
reporting this year. In doing this, it builds upon the information presented in the Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) and on the views expressed by LRGs through their own reports (more than 40 Voluntary Local Reviews from cities and regions and six reports from LGAs which provide a wider, subnational view of the localization process in the countries reporting this year). It also collects together the answers to the GTF survey, with the visions of LRGs from 75 countries. This report will be presented during the Local and Regional Governments’ Day at the 2020 High-Level Political Forum. 2020 marks the beginning of the Decade of Action for accelerating sustainable solutions to reach the SDGs by 2030. LRGs were already leading the expansion and extension of the SDG localization movement when COVID-19 placed them on the frontline of a crisis. Since its emergence, they have had to guarantee the safety of their communities and the continuity of essential public services, and to move quickly to support the most vulnerable members of their populations. While facing several shortages and threats, LRGs are carrying out transformative actions to ensure that no one and no territory is left behind.
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