Delivering sustainable development in cities around the world – recommendations to the EU

Local and regional authorities’ representatives from almost 80 countries have convened at the “Cities and Regions for Development Cooperation” forum to discuss urban development challenges and ways to deliver the Sustainable Development Goals at a local and regional level.

European Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development, Neven Mimica, said: “Cities and regions play a crucial role for sustainable development, as they host half of the world’s population today and will host over 65% by 2050. This urban increase will bring challenges, but also opportunities. Opportunities for people to ensure their access to food, decent housing, safety and jobs. We work closely with local and regional authorities and have dedicated an ambitious amount of €150 million to cities’ partnerships, to improve the lives of millions of people around the world”.

The world will never overcome the global challenges of the 21st century without regions and cities. They are leading the fight against climate change, promoting social inclusion, driving innovation and working in partnership across borders. Only by strengthening their autonomy, offering the right long-term financial support and investing in territorial cooperation will local and regional authorities be able to take the reins and leave a sustainable future for the next generation.

Local authorities from the EU and beyond gathered in thematic groups and discussed urban challenges in an interactive way.

As an outcome, policy recommendations were issued, which included among others: urban governance, women and youth empowerment the adoption of a territorial approach to local government, capacity building, domestic resource mobilisation, urban transport and mobility, waste management and climate change impact on territories.

EU representatives welcomed the participants’ recommendations and committed to take them into account in forthcoming actions to support local authorities.

Original source: European Commission 
Published on 05 February 2019