In most developing countries, the Goals reflect the needs of the majority of the population. As such, taking the necessary steps to ensure the achievement of the Goals at the local level has a clear political return for local politicians. “The Goals and targets coincide with the agenda of any good mayor who wishes to improve his or her city: reducing poverty and unemployment; increasing access to education and health services; combating inequality, including gender discrimination; improving the lives of the poorest residents; enhancing the quality of infrastructure and services; and protecting the environment.” United Nations Millennium Project Taskforce Report: “Taskforce on Improving the Lives of Slum Dwellers: A Home in the City”
The MDG framework is a useful management framework for local authorities in the South The MDG framework is a great management tool for local authorities in its own right. It can facilitate planning by providing a framework for a comprehensive local development plan. Not only does it help local governments set priorities, it can also help local budgeting, monitoring and evaluation, because it has a results-focus, and is timebound and measurable. “Our message to you today is this: we are committed to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals and we are ready to support the United Nations Secretariat in its efforts. We are convinced that states must keep the promises they made in 2000 and we are here today to show how effective we can be when we work together.” Paco Moncayo, Mayor of Quito and co-President of the United Cities and Local Governments
What is more the MDG framework can help local authorities convince national governments of the need for decentralisation The Millennium Development Goals provides a means for local authorities to demand greater autonomy and increased funding from national governments, in line with the responsibilities of local authorities for designing, managing and providing the local services to meet the Goals. Decentralisation and implementation of the Millennium Development Goals at the local level can also be a powerful force in deepening democracy and strengthening the pressure for accountable government.
“Our experience with decentralisation has opened up many new possibilities for us in addressing our poverty issues.We have found that development efforts are more effective when they are planned and executed in partnership with local communities.” Luísa Dias Diogo, Prime Minister, Mozambique 6