Global development is coming to town - Local action for the implementation of the SDGs and the New Urban Agenda

The adoption of the 2030 Agenda and the New Urban Agenda (NUA) are milestones of global governance towards an inclusive world where no one is left behind. With the considerable participation of relevant stakeholders, governments passed these ambitious frameworks for sustainable development.

After successful negotiation and adoption, now is the time for implementation. With the majority of global population being urban, it is undeniable that urbanisation determines the sustainability of global development. Thus, there can be no successful implementation of the 2030 Agenda without the effective participation and engagement of cities and municipalities. They are the essential places where development takes place. The NUA in turn provides the necessary orientation for implementing the 2030 Agenda in and with cities.

However, local implementation calls for the recognition and strengthening of local actors as agents for sustainable development and the promotion of decentralised government systems. National development plans and policies need to be drafted according to local realities. To secure ownership, local populations need to be included in planning and decision making processes. This requires the strengthening of urban capacities and administrations in order for them to fulfil their responsibilities and be responsive to local needs.

This event addresses the needs for action to empower cities and municipalities to implement the 2030 Agenda and the NUA. First experiences and success stories of early movers are shared. Beyond this, the respective requirements for successful implementation are elaborated. For the discussion to be vivid, evidence-based and linked to developmental realities, the event brings together different actors from the global south and north. It provides the opportunity to share successful approaches for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the NUA. It also sheds light on the challenges of local action and facilitates an exchange on strategies to overcome them.