SDG Localization: Insights from the Ground

Global Context

As we reach the halfway mark of the Agenda 2030, which introduced the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015, only 15% of the targets are on track. Alarmingly, according to the UN Secretary-General, many indicators are regressing. The Asia-Pacific region is no exception. The 2023 SDG Progress Report by the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) states that the region has achieved only 14% of its SDG targets. At the current pace, it would take another 42 years to achieve the goals. 

(https://www.undp.org/bangladesh/news/toward-2030-strategies-sdg-success-bangladesh)

In this context, SDG localization is critical for Bangladesh to meet the 2030 targets. Localization empowers underserved communities to address their own challenges, allocate resources effectively, and identify key stakeholders and vulnerable groups. Despite widespread discussions on localization, there remains a lack of evidence-based use cases to understand and scale successful practices.

National Context in Bangladesh

As written an article by Dr. Shamsul Alam is Member (Senior Secretary), General Economics Division (GED), Bangladesh Planning Commission in the Financial Express, 6^th April 2020, “Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) cannot rely solely on the efforts of governments or world leaders at the UN, nor can it be accomplished through national-level programs alone. These multifaceted goals require active participation from local leadership and communities, utilizing local resources effectively. Transparent, effective, and accountable institutions must be established at all levels of society, ensuring that decision-making processes are inclusive and participatory.

Since 2016, the Government of Bangladesh (GoB) has undertaken numerous significant initiatives at the national level to ensure the successful implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A national work plan has been developed, assigning specific responsibilities to ministries and departments based on the targets and indicators of the SDGs. To achieve these targets, data analysis was conducted to identify gaps, and a comprehensive report titled SDG Monitoring and Evaluation Framework was prepared to assess and monitor implementation progress. Consequently, the first evaluation report on the SDGs was published in 2018. The goals and targets of the SDGs are also integrated into the Government’s flagship development strategy, the Seventh Five-Year Plan (2016–2020).

The General Economics Division (GED) of the Bangladesh Planning Commission has developed an SDG Localizations Framework, which includes a working plan for localizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across all upazilas in Bangladesh. The framework outlines several key steps for effective localization. The first stage involves formulating SDG-centric local annual and five-year plans to determine the financial, human, and infrastructural resources required at the upazila, district, and divisional levels. This coordinated approach aims to achieve local targets aligned with national priorities.

To initiate the localization process, it is essential for local authorities to create SDG plans that link specific indicators to corresponding goals. The process should begin at the upazila level and later expand to unions. Existing administrative structures of the government at the district and upazila levels must be utilized to implement localization efforts effectively. Developing a comprehensive manual or guideline for the formulation and implementation of SDG localization plans at the upazila level—consolidated at the district level—is critical for success.

Recently, a committee for the implementation and coordination of SDGs has been formed at the upazila, district, and divisional levels under the direction of the Cabinet Division. This committee is tasked with adopting action plans, implementing and coordinating activities, and monitoring SDG progress, prioritizing Bangladesh's SDG agenda in line with upazila needs.

SDG localization has already begun in Natore at the district level, supported by the existing committee for SDG localization. However, no comprehensive work plan has been initiated at the upazila level in other regions. Meanwhile, some non-governmental organizations (NGOs), such as The Hunger Project, have taken initiatives to localize SDGs at the union level.For instance, The Hunger Project has implemented several steps to localize the SDGs and formulate local-level planning in the Saharbati Union Parishad under Gangni Upazila of Meherpur District. This initiative can serve as a valuable case study for SDG localization at the grassroots level.” 

(https://thefinancialexpress.com.bd/economy/bangladesh/localisation-of-sdgs-to-counteract-covid-19-fallout-1586099951)

Deepening SDG Localization: Key Focus Areas

I propose establishing Union-level committees to strengthen the Upazila SDG Implementation and Coordination Committees (USICC). The Union-level committees can play a vital role in empowering local efforts, ensuring sustainability, and addressing key challenges.

Despite progress, several areas require further exploration and evidence-based learning to scale effective SDG localization. Key focus areas include:

Community-Led Local-Level Planning and Mapping

Community-led planning and mapping are essential to determining local priorities, power hubs, vulnerable groups, leaders, and resource gaps. The process must be led by the community to ensure ownership and effectiveness.

Community-Led Dialogues for Decision-Making

A flexible, experience-based, and evolving guidebook should be developed to help communities facilitate dialogues leading to actionable decisions. This process will identify future leaders, facilitators, partners, social challenges, opportunities, and incentives.

Scaling Through Policy Advocacy

Policy advocacy is crucial for scaling successful community practices. Social organizations, NGOs, and development agencies must play an active role in ensuring effective policies and guidelines.

Social Monitoring Through a Community SDG Mirror

Establishing a Social SDG Mirror to ensure equal access to services and opportunities. Implementing alternative and innovative data collection methods to complement official government data systems.

Integrating Citizen Data into the SDG Tracker

Creating a citizen dashboard within the SDG Tracker to provide policymakers with real-time, participatory data. This will ensure policymakers have access to community-driven insights for decision-making.

Participatory Approaches and Social Impact Recognition

Engaging communities through participatory approaches led by knowledgeable local facilitators. Developing a social recognition mechanism to encourage contributions and acknowledge both successes and failures as learning opportunities.

Effective Storytelling Through Impact TALK

Establishing Impact TALK as a platform to showcase community-driven SDG localization experiences. Ensuring storytelling is led by community members who share their firsthand experiences.

By focusing on these key areas, Bangladesh can accelerate SDG localization and ensure more inclusive, community-driven progress towards achieving the 2030 targets.

Let’s continue the discussion.