Unlocking Local Solutions Advances Global Progress, Secretary-General Tells Development Forum, Urging All to Work Together

Following are UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s remarks at the third World Forum on Local Development, in Turin, Italy, today:

Thank you very much for this opportunity to address this dynamic gathering.  Three weeks ago, world leaders adopted their visionary and ambitious plan for a new future.  The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development lays out how we can end poverty, protect the planet and achieve prosperity that lasts.

We reached this historic landmark following broad consultations with people around the world.  The 17 Sustainable Development Goals will only be realized when countries and communities work together.

We often hear about how the world is becoming more globalized — and that is true.  At the same time, the vast majority of people still live their lives within a 500-kilometre radius.  So, while we focus on global agreements, we have to realize that local environments are central to success.

That is why it is so important for these global goals to be advanced in cities, regions and territories.  Local economic development raises living standards.  It fosters social inclusion, and that contributes to stability and peace.

To ensure a life of dignity for all people, we need to ensure quality health services, better education, gender equality and other elements of a free and secure life.  This is a difficult task.  I understand the challenges; too many girls suffer violence and abuse, too many people are so hungry they struggle to survive, too many families are being driven from their homes by war, poverty and other threats.

Unemployment is at record levels, with more than 200 million jobless people.  Cities are especially under pressure.  The growing gap between rich and poor is naturally generating social tensions.  People are also more vulnerable now to extreme weather events associated with climate change.

These very grave concerns are at the top of the international agenda.  Governments are responding, and so are local leaders.  I have seen creative solutions in communities around the world.  I have stopped at health posts in small villages that are making a big difference for mothers and babies.  I have toured energy facilities offering low-carbon solutions to developed countries. I have talked to girls in schools whose education gives them a better chance to shape their own future.

The 2030 Agenda is a powerful, visionary document that is also practical.  It outlines specific steps to reach our goal of a life of dignity for all people.  It calls for voluntary national reviews, including subnational reviews, peer reviews and thematic reviews.

This is where you come in.  I have three requests:  first, encourage your local authorities to participate in these reviews; second, gather information from your citizens; and third, contribute to your national reviews.

I also have an invitation.  Join us at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum in New York.  Bring your problems and solutions to the international community.  Together, we can open a new future.

People are often told to “think globally and act locally”.  The United Nations is doing exactly that.  Our International Labour Organization is working to promote jobs — especially green jobs — in countries around the world.  The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has projects to increase wealth and improve productivity.  Even our emergency relief operations aim to empower local communities.  We send in food aid from overseas if we have to, but we give priority to supporting local farmers and merchants whenever we can.

Local action is also critical to the global response on climate change.  In December, leaders will gather for the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris.  Global warming affects the entire planet — and everyone can be part of the solution.  I count on you to help turn the climate challenge into an opportunity for sustainable development.

When we unlock local solutions, we will advance global progress.  Let us work together for a better future for all.  Thank you for your commitment and your leadership.