Local democracy and free election of local representatives is fundamental to democracy and a powerful force for promoting understanding, social cohesion and community-driven development, the CLGF Board reaffirmed today.
 

Meeting in London, for their annual meeting they also discussed  the impact of Brexit and potential opportunities for increased collaboration within the Commonwealth at local level, whilst ensuring a continuing partnership between the CLGF and the European Union.

Members of the Board welcomed the adoption of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development as a comprehensive way to address global challenges and the recognition of the role of regional and local governments, as an integral part of the SDGs as well as specifically in SDG 11 on inclusive, safe and resilient cities and human settlements.

They also welcomed the Paris Agreement on climate change and the recognition to local government in its implementation.
 

Board members agreed to continue international advocacy through the Global Task Force of Regional and Local Governments, partner with key Commonwealth and international organisations to promote climate change adaptation, and seek full implementation of the Addis Ababa commitments on sub-national finance.

The Board also met with development partner representatives including UCLG, UNDP, UN-Habitat and Platforma as well as partner Commonwealth organisations the Commonwealth Foundation, Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, and the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation. The meeting was hosted by CLGF UK member the Local Government Association of England and Wales at Local Government House and addressed by LGA Chair Lord Porter.

Speaking at the meeting, CLGF Chairperson Mayor Lawrence Yule said:

Global cooperation for peace and development is today more vital than ever; local democracy and free election of local representatives is fundamental to the democratic process and a powerful force for promoting understanding, social cohesion and community-driven development.

At the end of the meeting Cllr Rev Mpho Moruakgomo, Chairperson of the Botswana Association of Local Authorities became CLGF Chairperson following his election at the CLGF Board Meeting in Botswana in June 2015.
 

The CLGF Executive Committee also met with Chair of House of Commons International Development Committee Rt Hon Stephen Twigg MP on 11 July.

Read CLGF Board statement 2016