July 2-4, 2024 | UCLG ASPAC ensured strong presence of local governments, particularly from the Asia-Pacific region, in the 2024 International Mayors Forum. The forum was organised by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, and the Government of the Republic of Indonesia, represented by the Special Region of Jakarta, in collaboration with United Cities and Local Governments Asia Pacific (UCLG ASPAC) and the Local 2030 Coalition. The event, taking theme “Accelerating Action at the Local Level to Achieve the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals”, attracted 253 high-level city representatives, covering 149 men (59%) and 104 women (41%) from 38 countries. The forum underscored the pivotal role of urban and rural authorities in driving global sustainability amidst rapid urbanisation, economic constraints, growing inequalities, and escalating environmental challenges.
Key Themes and Findings
- Good Governance and Institutional Arrangements: The forum highlighted the necessity for integrated policies and vertical integration between local and national governments. These synergies are essential to support local actions towards sustainable development, ensuring that policies are effectively implemented at all levels.
- Financing and Investment Pathways: Discussions emphasised the importance of local government financing for national development. Innovative financing mechanisms, such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and better asset management, were identified as crucial for mobilising resources necessary for SDG implementation.
- Technological Influences: The forum recognised the potential of technological solutions, including digital transformation and smart city initiatives, to enhance resource efficiency, improve public services, and facilitate effective governance. Ensuring digital inclusion was stressed to provide equitable access to technological benefits for all community members.
- Inclusive Development: Emphasis was placed on the importance of inclusive policies and practices to address inequalities. Ensuring that all community members, particularly the vulnerable, benefit from development initiatives is essential for creating transparent and effective decision-making processes.
- Environmental Sustainability and Synergistic Action for Climate and SDGs: Sustainable urban development practices, including green infrastructure, renewable energy, and climate resilience strategies, were identified as key to addressing environmental challenges and promoting a just transition towards a sustainable future. The forum also stressed the importance of synergistic actions that address climate change risks while simultaneously advancing the SDGs, ensuring integrated and effective policies that promote sustainability, resilience, and social inclusion.
- Data Monitoring and Capacity Building: Reliable data collection and robust monitoring systems are vital for tracking progress towards the SDGs. Capacity building for local governments was emphasised to enhance their ability to implement and monitor development projects effectively.
CLICK HERE for presentation materials on each session
Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs)
A significant highlight of the forum was the launch of four Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs) by Kendal Regency, West Java Province, Samarinda City, and Jakarta Special Region. These VLRs, supported by UCLG ASPAC, demonstrate the commitment of local governments to the SDGs. Some of these VLRs were developed in collaboration with partners such as UNESCAP (West Java) and Tanoto Foundation (Kendal), showcasing the power of partnerships in driving local progress.
Insights from Distinguished Speakers
“The 2024 SDG Progress Report tells us that only 17% of the targets are on track. The SDGs are in dire need of a booster, and we do not have a moment to lose. The deadline is fast approaching, and the change must focus on structural transformation.”
Mr. Navid Hanif, Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development, United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs
“Attending these goals depends not only on governmental efforts but active engagement from all social sectors such as private sectors. Fundamentally, mayors lead the implementation of programmes that support sustainable development at the local level.”
H.E. Mr. Tito Karnavian, Minister of Home Affairs, Indonesia, represented by Mr. Restuardy Daud, Director-General of Regional Development, Ministry of Home Affairs
“Jakarta remains committed to transparency and accountability in achieving the SDGs. In 2021, we completed our first Voluntary Local Review (VLR), and we are currently preparing the second VLR to be submitted to the UN, allowing Jakarta to share experiences and learn from other cities in achieving the SDGs. With Jakarta’s new vision as a global city, our policies aim to strengthen vertical and horizontal references and contribute to sustainable principles at the national and international levels.”
Hon. Mr. Heru Budi Hartono, Acting Governor of Jakarta, Co-President of UCLG ASPAC
“It is imperative that we accelerate our actions to achieve the targets within the remaining six years. We work closely with universities, establishing SDG centres throughout Indonesia, which play a crucial role in regional action plans, monitoring, and reporting. To accelerate SDGs, we emphasise the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships, integrated local government programmes, and innovative approaches to bridge the SDG gap.”
H.E. Mr. Suharso Monoarfa, Minister of National Development Planning (Bappenas)
The Jakarta Declaration
The event concluded with the adoption of the Jakarta Declaration, a commitment by the attendees to foster resilient, adaptive, and inclusive municipal environments amid a changing climate. The declaration highlights key actions such as enhancing multilevel governance, promoting local innovation, integrating policies and financing, advancing digital transformation, supporting economic inclusivity, and implementing sustainable environmental practices. The declaration calls for a synergistic approach to address climate change and achieve the SDGs, emphasising the active participation of all community members in planning and decision-making. CLICK HERE for Jakarta Declaration
Conclusion
The International Mayors Forum 2024 provided a vital platform for sharing knowledge and best practices, strengthening the network of local government leaders committed to sustainable development. The emphasis on integrated governance, innovative financing, technological advancements, inclusive development, and environmental sustainability reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing global challenges at the local level. By implementing these recommendations, local and national governments, in collaboration with various stakeholders, can effectively address global challenges and accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs.
As we look forward to future forums, UCLG ASPAC remains dedicated to fostering collaboration and driving positive change across the Asia-Pacific region.
Photos:
(Source: The Provincial Government of Jakarta Special Region, except the VLR launch)
