June 14, 2023 | UCLG ASPAC LEAD for SDGs, a project co-funded by the European Union (EU), organised the National Conference on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Islamabad, Pakistan, June 14, 2023. The event served as a platform to accelerate the implementation of the SDGs Agenda 2030 and empower local governments for inclusive and sustainable development at the grassroots level. The conference brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including policymakers, government officials, experts, and representatives from civil society organisations. It fostered fruitful discussions and deliberations on key strategies and initiatives needed to achieve the SDGs, with a specific focus on empowering local governments to drive sustainable and inclusive local action.
Dr. Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi, UCLG ASPC Secretary General, showcased the LEAD for SDGs Localisation actions and achievements with a glimpse of the way forward to work with the salient stakeholders up till and after 2030.
Notable highlights of the conference included insights shared by ministers for local government from various provinces, highlighting ongoing initiatives and policies that strengthen the capacities of local authorities and promote sustainable development in their respective regions.
During the National Conference, the significance of empowering local governments in the SDGs implementation process was emphasised. The event shed light on recent elections held in different regions of Pakistan, presenting an opportunity to integrate the SDGs into governance structures and policies. Participants discussed the importance of comprehensive planning, effective implementation, and robust monitoring mechanisms to track progress towards the SDGs.
The European Union Delegation, represented by Mr. Sven Ruesch, acknowledged LEAD for SDGs as a unique project that prioritises the capacity building of local governments. The conference also showcased the achievements of the four-year LEAD for SDGs programme, which encompassed capacity building, awareness raising, alliances, partnerships, and policy advocacy.
The event concluded with remarks from Mr. Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan, who highlighted the need for aligning national policies with the SDGs and emphasised the commitment of the National Assembly to contribute actively to their implementation. Overall, the National Conference underscored the importance of collaborative efforts and inclusive policies to pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous future for Pakistan.
June 13, 2023 | Islamabad – LEAD for SDGs concluded Capacity Building Workshop on SDG Local Reporting and Monitoring. The workshop enhanced the skills of stakeholders in effectively reporting and monitoring the progress of SDGs at the local level.
UCLG ASPAC Team provided valuable insights into the Voluntary National Review (VNR) Process and UN Guidelines and highlight the significance of accurate data collection and reporting in achieving the SDGs.
Distinguished Presidents of Local Councils of KPK, Punjab, and the National Level LCA shared their visions and emphasised the importance of data collection at the grassroots level. The participants actively engaged in interactive sessions, delving deep into topics related to sustainable development, innovation, and collaborative solutions.
The workshop fostered a collaborative environment where participants gained valuable knowledge and skills, empowering them to contribute effectively towards the achievement of SDGs.
Balochistan
May 31 and June 1, 2023 | Quetta – Provincial Level Policy Dialogue for Balochistan and the District Level Policy Dialogue in Quetta, were held on May 31 and June 1, 2023, respectively. These dialogues fostered cooperation, and explored best practices in achieving the transformative goals of Agenda 2030.
During the events, participants were updated on the SDGs and their significance in the context of local governance. The dialogues focused on the link between the SDGs and representatives from local government, emphasising the importance of aligning frameworks, policies, and sustainable financing to effectively implement the SDGs at the provincial and local levels.
Discussions revolved around the local government structure and its role in advancing the SDGs. Participants explored SDGs frameworks and deliberated on strategies to support provincial and district-level development planning aligned with the SDGs.
Sindh
June 7-8, 2023 | Larkana, Naushahro Feroze – Quarterly Meetings of Larkana District Alliance on SDGs and Naushahro Feroze District Alliance on SDGs provided an excellent platform for alliance members to reflect on their past quarter activities, share valuable lessons learned, and reinforce their commitment to sustainable development. In Larkana, passionate individuals gathered to discuss their dedication to sustainable development. The meeting served as an opportunity to acknowledge the positive experiences and lessons learned through their engagement with the LEAD Project. The enthusiasm and unwavering commitment displayed by the members were truly inspiring.
Similarly, in Naushahro Feroze, the district alliance members reflected on their quarter’s accomplishments and discussed the valuable lessons they have acquired along the way. The meeting was marked by a unanimous decision to continue the invaluable work of the SDGs Alliances under the LCAs platform. This commitment reflects the shared vision for sustainable development and their unwavering determination to make a difference.
