Localizing the SDGs for Inclusive Multilateralism: SDG Cities Legal Checklist

Localizing the SDGs for Inclusive Multilateralism: SDG Cities Legal Checklist, presented by PLGSs Sapna Singh.

Several SDGs can only be achieved through effective legislative frameworks and policies. Urban legislation has an important role to play in virtually all targets of SDG 11. It defines conditions for access to land, infrastructure, housing and basic services; lays out rules for planning and decision-making; guides the improvement of livelihoods and living conditions by setting requirements for urban development initiatives; and sets the context within which urban authorities, local governments and communities are expected to fulfil their mandate and react to emerging challenges. This is also true for SDG 10, as legislation can set meaningful frameworks for sustainable development, or it can accentuate inequalities and exclusion. Effective urban regulatory frameworks are also fundamental to promote climate smart urbanization (SDG 13) as well as promote the rule of law, develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels; and ensure participatory and representative decision-making (SDG 16).