CLGF is in Brussels this week for a multi-faceted event coordinated by Platforma, a forum based in the EU capital, that brings together European local government associations involved in development work.

Reviewing, planning and celebrating

Firstly, to take part in the Platforma Steering Committee, a growing family that is looking to the future by setting priorities and creating a course for continued activities. Secondly, coming together with Platforma and other partners to review activities over the last decade and celebrating some of the many successes by local government in the field of development. Finally, to mark ten years since the inception of the Platforma organisation. 

As well as having a Framework Partnership Agreement (FPA) in its own right with projects in Dominica, Ghana, Jamaica, Malawi, Rwanda and Trinidad and Tobago, CLGF has a second FPA as a partner in Platforma’s Strategic Grant.

Importance of localising the SDGs

CLGF Deputy Secretary General Lucy Slack said: "We are very pleased to be represented at this event and to hear about the work that's been undertaken by all the local government partners. This is not only a celebration of Platforma, but a reminder of the importance of localising the Sustainable Development Goals."

As part of the celebrations, there is an opportunity to recognise the local government coalition; which, in addition to CLGF and Platforma, includes AIMF, UCLG and UCLGA. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium is hosting an event to highlight the work of cities and regions worldwide to implement and promote sustainable development. The main goal for all the activities: to improve the lives of their citizens.