Localizing the SDGs: Making societies resilient for the times ahead

Following the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, national governments are developing Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) to assess their progress in implementing the 2030 Agenda. These reviews show that progress in transforming the globe into future proof societies, is most effectively realised through implementing the SDGs together with all stakeholders -from national and regional to local governments, and citizens. To bring about lasting behavioural changes and making societies resilient for the times ahead, wide cooperation is key.

A number of cities have already documented their contribution towards the SDGs through Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs), often exhibiting the effectiveness of multi-level governance. However, many cities are not (yet) measuring their progress in implementing the SDGs, although they are taking initiatives, for example in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This global health crisis illustrates sharply and painfully the importance of a holistic and integrated approach to sustainable ecosystems. Only by integrating the social, economic and environmental dimensions of sustainability societies can be and remain resilient to such global challenges. Moreover, the crisis urges leaders at all levels and in all sectors to take joint actions for a sustainable and resilient common future. Hence, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, its consequences and responses will be the starting point for the discussions during this event. The diversity of local approaches to localising the SDGs is a given and will be put central to discuss the importance of taking local actions and the added value of reporting.

More info:

• Localizing the SDGs and the role of SDG Voluntary Local Reviews in Eastern and Southeast Europe: https://unece.org/info/Housing-and-Land-Management/events/363560
• City of Ghent policy towards localising the SDGs: https://stad.gent/en/city-governance-organisation/city-policy/ghents-sustainable-development-goals#SDG_reports
• City of Ghent SDG Voices campaign: https://sdgactionawards.org/sdg-voices/
• Guidelines for the Development of Voluntary Local Reviews in the ECE Region https://unece.org/housing-and-land-management/publications/VRL%20guidelines-ece%20region
• “How will your city look in 2030? - Localizing the SDGs and the role of SDG Voluntary Local Reviews in Eastern and Southeast Europe.” https://unece.org/info/Housing-and-Land-Management/events/363051 and https://unece.org/info/Housing-and-Land-Management/events/363560
• UNECE Regional Action Plan 2030 https://unece.org/housing/regional-action-plan-2030