How SDG localization interacts with existing governance contexts

Abstract Non-Technical Summary The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), endorsed by national governments, rely on local actors for effective implementation. While the nonbinding nature of the SDG agreement allows for adaptability, it also leads to varying localization across contexts, impacted by existing governance arrangements. This study provides a structured analysis of existing studies, discussions, and evidence that examines how SDG localization interacts with different governance dimensions across diverse contexts. Adopting a meta-perspective, it contributes to a deeper understanding of these variations in SDG localization and informs the development of strategies to accelerate SDG progress at the local level, both leading up to and beyond 2030. Technical Summary Cities and local actors have a critical role to play in implementing the SDGs, given their proximity to citizens and community-based challenges. Many regions and cities have undertaken SDG localization as a means to translate and implement global goals at the local level. However, the type and extent of SDG localization have varied a lot across contexts, and this variation is sometimes attributed to the varying governance contexts. Comprehensive studies of governance contexts and their impact on SDG localization are scarce, and the complexity of governance has led current literature to focus primarily on specific aspects – such as policies, strategic planning, or local initiatives – without providing a holistic perspective to fully explore their interconnections. This study addresses this gap by developing a conceptual framework to analyze their interactions at two levels: the intentional level, which examines images, instruments, and actions utilized by actors, and the structural level, which considers underlying conditions, enablers, or impediments. By integrating fragmented analyses and synthesizing insights in the literature, this study develops a more comprehensive understanding of how SDG localization interacts with existing governance contexts and what this means for accelerating progress on the SDGs and developing the next global agenda beyond 2030. Social Media Summary This research offers a structured analysis of existing studies, discussions, and evidence that examines how SDG localization interacted with existing governance contexts.