Because the New Urban Agenda does not have specific goals or indicators, this is where local governments can get involved to define what is considered progress. Günter Meinert Project Manager for Municipal and Urban Development, GIZ
The local level is critical for development and local authorities play a very important role, not just in defining the agenda, but in the implementation of the SDGs. Rosario Bento Pais Head of Unit of International Cooperation and Development, European Commission
There are many advocacy outreach tools to further facilitate implementation and we are willing to work in conjunction with UCLG to inform local authorities of these and spread the word. Tobias Kettner Outreach and Liaison Officer in Europe, Habitat III Secretariat
Most citizens across the world are largely unaware of the commitments that their governments have made. So how do we hold governments accountable for these commitments? And how do we mobilize and educate ‘ordinary people’ with regard to these commitments? William Cobbett Director of Cities Alliance
11 UCLG RETREAT AND CAMPUS 2017
The motto of ‘no one left behind’ is significant and poses a unique challenge: how do we address this amongst all people? Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi Secretary General of UCLG Africa
This agenda is beginning to give more responsibility to local authorities, and while this is beneficial, it also presents an issue of capacity and ability, when access to finance, autonomy, resource mobilization, etc., are not at the levels where they need to be. It is critical for the networks of local governments to enhance and to ensure that the means to implement are available for their constituents. Frédéric Vallier Secretary General of CEMR