As part of its efforts to institutionalize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Taskforce and to enhance the engagement of Palestinian local government units (LGUs) in global development, the Association of Palestinian Local Authorities (APLA) held a specialized training on The Preparation of Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs). Thirteen LGUs from the taskforce membership took part in the event. The training wa part of an advanced practical capacity-building track designed to prepare the team to play an active role in SDG localization. It aimed to institutionalize and enhance capacity of the SDG Taskforce members to produce VLRs that reflect progress toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development within the Palestinian context and meet international standards.
Led by Dr. Ahmed Jaber, APLA SDG Localization Project Coordinator, the training was delivered in two integrated sessions. Held in person in Ramallah, the first session focused on the conceptual framework, structure, and methodologies used in the preparation of VLRs. It also addressed data collection mechanisms, indicator selection criteria, and how to bring local priorities in line with the global context. Practical exercises were included, strengthening participants’ ability to translate theoretical concepts into actionable tools that can be applied within LGU development plans.
The second session, held via Zoom, was dedicated to analyzing selected international examples of VLRs, featuring cities such as Penang, Bristol, Amman, and Barcelona. The session included a comparative assessment and lessons that can be adapted to the Palestinian context. The Ramallah Municipality participated as a leading local example. Irene Sa’adeh, Director of Sustainable Development and International Cooperation at the Municipality, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the city’s experience in preparing its VLR. Sa’adeh elaborated on technical and organizational aspects, mechanisms for community engagement, data challenges, and development of appropriate indicators.
This training is part of a broader series of activities implemented by APLA to increase the visibility of Palestinian LGUs in the global development space through practical and integrated tools that promote data-driven planning and accountability. It falls under the Mobilization of LGU Competencies to Share Knowledge and Adapt to SDGs project of the GIZ-supported Local Governance Reform Program III (LGRP III). ).
