Realisation of Agenda 2030 is highly dependent on changemaking on a local level. OECD estimates that 105 of the 169 targets behind the 17 SDGs need to be coordinated by the local governments. Local politicians and officials therefore need to be close collaborators in working with local and national implementation strategies.
SDG localisation refers to the process of aligning local policies, programs, and initiatives with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDG localisation involves identifying which of the SDGs are relevant to a specific local context, and then developing and implementing policies, programs, and initiatives that are tailored to the local community and that support the achievement of the SDGs. This process can help to ensure that the benefits of sustainable development are felt by all members of the community, and can contribute to the overall success of Agenda 2030. Identifying key SDGs, integrating SDGs in development plans and strategies, and monitoring implementation are important steps.
Watch this 4-minute introductory video made by UCLG Learning. (The first two minutes is a repetition of the last section – skip directly to 2.00 if you know your SDGs by now).