Action-Oriented Plans for implementing Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs)

With the world’s population becoming increasingly urbanized, cities and local governments play a pivotal role in achieving the SDGs. The localization of the SDGs – translating, defining, implementing, and monitoring the goals and targets within local contexts – is essential for sustainable urban development. This recognition has given rise to the development of Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs), which are critical tools for local and regional governments to align their development strategies with the 2030 Agenda.

Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs) are tools for local governments to assess and monitor progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrate leadership in sustainability, enhance visibility and networks, promote policy coherence, and mobilize stakeholders. They provide evidence-based assessments, highlight local commitments to sustainable practices, foster international relationships, align local policies with SDG targets, and engage various stakeholders in collective action, thereby strengthening sustainability efforts and data collection processes. However, a crucial question arises: what happens after a VLR is finalized and published?

Date:  1 st October 2024 
Location: Geneva
Format: Upon invitation only