DeLoG Celebrates Milestone for Local Governments in UN Pact for the Future
The Development Partners Network on Decentralisation and Local Governance (DeLoG) is thrilled to announce a significant victory for local and regional governments worldwide. The recently adopted UN Pact for the Future includes a groundbreaking provision that aligns closely with DeLoG's advocacy efforts.
Action 55 of the Pact calls for strengthening partnerships to deliver on existing commitments and address new challenges. Crucially, it requests the UN Secretary-General to "provide recommendations on how engagement with local and regional authorities could advance the 2030 Agenda, particularly the localization of the Sustainable Development Goals, by the end of the seventy-ninth session for Member States' consideration."
This inclusion represents a major step forward in recognizing the critical role of local governments in achieving global development goals. It directly addresses key points from DeLoG's recent Joint Statement, which called for:
- Formal recognition of local and regional governments as a distinct, self-organized constituency within the UN system
- Systematic consultation with local government networks in preparing and implementing global agendas
- Enhanced representation of local authorities in UN decision-making processes
DeLoG and its members have long advocated for increased engagement between the UN and local governments. This new mandate creates a clear pathway for developing concrete mechanisms to strengthen this vital partnership.
As we celebrate this achievement, DeLoG remains committed to working collaboratively with the UN, member states, and our partners to ensure effective implementation of this provision. We look forward to contributing our expertise as recommendations are developed to advance the localization of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Stay tuned for updates on how DeLoG will engage in this process and opportunities for our members to contribute their insights.