8 October 2025
18:00–22:00
Beirut time
Special event

Voluntary Local Reviews: Cities talk to each other

Location
  • Geneva
Contact information
Share
twitter social icon linkedin social icon facebook social icon mail icon
1

2

3

4

5

Cities are coming together to spark real progress! ESCWA, in collaboration with UNECE, the Global Cities Hub, the Swiss Confederation, and the City of Geneva, co-hosts a side event, “Voluntary Local Reviews – Crafting the Process: Cities talk to each other,” during the Fifth Forum of Mayors.

The event focuses on the process of Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs), highlighting key components such as obtaining political commitment, aligning local objectives with national priorities, developing effective data collection systems, engaging a wide range of stakeholders, and presenting outcomes on international platforms. It offers a platform for cities from different regions to exchange knowledge, address challenges, and discuss practical approaches. The event also examines the role of local authorities in promoting policy coherence and advancing progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.

Outcome document

The session underscored that data collection for VLRs must be inclusive and locally owned, and that political endorsement and participatory planning are essential for ensuring credible and effective review processes. Participants emphasized that the VLR process strengthens the local–national–global nexus and positions local and regional governments as full partners in SDG implementation and reporting. The discussion also highlighted the continued support provided by the UN Regional Commissions and UN-Habitat in shaping VLR methodologies and enhancing their visibility at the international level. Finally, participants reiterated the need for the UN Forum of Mayors to evolve into an “HLPF for cities,” providing a permanent platform for municipalities to present their VLRs and exchange experiences.

  • VLRs have become a strategic instrument for cities to link local action with national and global commitments, strengthening city diplomacy.
  • Opening remarks by H.E. Markus Reubi and H.E. Akram Sa’ud Harahsheh emphasized that cities are central to SDG implementation and must be fully integrated into national review processes.
  • Cities from Switzerland, Jordan, Türkiye, the Philippines, Zambia, and Argentina shared diverse experiences in developing and institutionalizing VLRs.
  • Speakers highlighted the need for inclusive, locally-owned data collection systems that capture the realities of all communities, including vulnerable groups.
  • Political endorsement and participatory planning were identified as essential for credible and impactful VLRs.
  • Integration of VLRs into municipal planning and budgeting processes is vital to ensure continuity, sustainability, and accountability.
  • Collaboration across cities-North–South and South–South-was highlighted as key for peer learning and practical problem-solving.

Initiatives: Sustainable urban development

Documents

ESCWA - Shared Prosperity Dignified Life
Our vision

ESCWA, an innovative catalyst for a stable, just and flourishing Arab region.

Our mission

Committed to the 2030 Agenda, ESCWA’s passionate team produces innovative knowledge, fosters regional consensus and delivers transformational policy advice. Together, we work for a sustainable future for all.

Get the latest updates from ESCWA direct to your inbox.
arrow-up icon
Feedback