With the goal of amplifying the impact of the SDG Summit scheduled on the 18-19 September 2023, the UN Secretary-General is convening an SDG Action Weekend. This is a pivotal event in the run-up to the SDG Summit and promises to be a catalyst for transformative change towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. As the world reaches the midpoint of the SDG timeline, this weekend serves as a critical juncture to galvanize efforts, set clear commitments, and steer the course towards achieving the SDGs by 2030. It’s a testament to the collaborative spirit required to address our global challenges.
Comprised of two distinct but interconnected days, this event will facilitate opportunities for stakeholders, UN entities, and Member States to assemble within the United Nations Headquarters in New York. On September 16, the SDG Mobilization Day will provide a platform for civil society, the private sector, youth, scientists, local and regional governments, and other key stakeholders to mobilize their efforts towards an ambitious SDG Summit. The goal is to generate momentum and specific commitments that will drive SDG progress.
Following this, on September 17, the SDG Acceleration Day will spotlight the UN’s High-Impact Initiatives and emphasize actionable steps to accelerate SDG implementation. The event will showcase real progress in critical areas, with participation from Heads of State, Ministers, UN Principals, and representatives from various sectors, all committing to tangible actions.
The SDG Action Weekend also includes high-level side-events organized by UN Member States, UN entities, and international organizations, offering additional opportunities for engagement and collaboration.
Local and Regional Governments Forum: Action and leadership from the ground up towards the rescue plan for people and the planet
The Local and Regional Government Forum (LRGF) is an important event taking place during the SDG Action Weekend, with a strong emphasis on the role of local and regional governments in advancing the 2030 Agenda. These governments have played a crucial role in implementing policies that prioritize people and the planet, focusing on public services, social inclusion, local economies, ecological transformation, and partnerships.
The LRGF will bring together local, regional, and national governments, along with representatives from the United Nations and other stakeholders. The sessions will highlight the local and regional governments efforts in local acceleration and accountability, aligned with the SDG transitions, means of implementation, and crosscutting enablers of High-Impact Initiatives. An important objective will be announcing actionable commitments by local and regional governments, presenting impactful coalitions, and reflecting on the priorities of these governments for the upcoming SDG Summit and the UNGA high-level week.
The event will be led by the Global Task Force of Local and Regional Governments in collaboration with key partners such as United Cities and Local Governments, UN DESA, UN-Habitat, UNDP, and the Local2030 Coalition. For more information, please visit the Local2023 Coalition page.
Photo credit: United Nations Headquarters. Used under Creative Commons license (CC BY 2.0).
