Decentralization should be at the core of an ‘enabling environment’ for LRGs Consistent with SDG 16’s call for effective, accountable and transparent institutions, 19 countries singled out decentralization (or devolution and similar concepts) as a crucial in the implementation of the SDGs. 11 more referred to the need to strengthen local governance. LRGs stress that weak or incomplete decentralization processes – no clear transfer of competences, lack of resources, weak capacities, poor accountability and transparency – have been major obstacles for the implementation of the SDGs. Territorial approaches to public investment can strengthen LRGs’ capacities and finances for localization The localization of the SDGs requires ambitious administrative reforms to strengthen the capacities of sub-national governments. The reform of sub-national financing systems will be instrumental to achievement of the SDGs. In line with the Addis Ababa Action Agenda for financing of development (and, in particular, the recommendations of paragraph 34), national governments should develop and adopt inter-governmental frameworks that adequately empower sub-national governments. Local revenue generation, fiscal transfers, access to longterm finance for LRGs and localized development assistance should likewise be enhanced. A bottom-up monitoring process supported by disaggregated data should be facilitated Only 27 countries seem to have made specific reference to the need for disaggregated data in their reviews. National governments should explore how LRGs could contribute to the collection of data and indicators, and let them take part in the monitoring process. National governments should consider how to maximize the benefits of current initiatives in this regard, such as any innovative experiences in partnership with civil society and communities. They should attempt to pursue greater reliance on sub-national data as key instrument for the development of strong localized policies. International cooperation, knowledge exchange and peer-to-peer learning between LRGs are key The universal breadth of the SDGs makes it easier and more valuable for LRGs around the world to share experiences and learn from practices and knowledge of other countries and territories, especially at a more decentralized level. Local authorities have a long tradition of international collaboration to strengthen LRGs’ capacities and support development projects for the localization of the SDGs. LRGs need a seat at the “reporting” table Localization remains a pending issue in the HLPF agenda, with no relevant place for either reporting from a local perspective or showcasing what is already being done. This situation can turn into a missed opportunity to enhance the visibility of successful examples and to prompt greater and better local participation where it is not happening yet. To properly harness local experiences and knowledge, the place and role of LRGs in international policymaking need to change. The efforts of LRGs to organize, collaborate and deliver informed inputs must be acknowledged as part of the regular and institutional processes of monitoring and reporting of the HLPF.
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