Page 54 - U4SSC Factsheet, Valencia, Spain, June 2020

Also, the analytical framework of the SDGs lends itself to the use of clear baselines to improve internal
planning and implementation. Other benefits include gap analysis, infusing priorities into a budget
process, cutting programming redundancies and saving resources, and tracking outcomes. Cities can
also engage across the global network of other governments and institutions that are pursuing the
same goals. The SDGs framework is also effective at different scales, offering the opportunity to align
and harmonize policies and common goals vertically (up and down government jurisdictions), as well
as horizontally (across city agencies). Therefore, if integrated and managed well, the SDGs can help
strengthen local communities through values such as transparency, inclusion, and engagement. 53

New Urban Agenda 54

The New Urban Agenda represents a shared vision for a better and more sustainable future. It was
adopted at the UN Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development (Habitat III) in Quito,
Ecuador, on 20 October 2016. Habitat III had the convening power to bring together all actors to
identify solutions for the complex challenge of urbanization, including Member States, multilateral
organizations, local governments, private sector and civil society. It helped to systematize the alignment
between cities and towns and national planning objectives in their role as drivers of national economic
and social development.

Urbanization is an unprecedented challenge, indeed. By the middle of the 21st century, four of every
five people might be living in towns and cities. Urbanization and development are inextricably linked,
and it will always be necessary to find a way to ensure the sustainability of growth.

The New Urban Agenda is premised on the basis that if well-planned and well-managed, urbanization can
be a powerful tool for sustainable development and poverty reduction, for developing and developed
countries alike. Governments can respond to this key development opportunity by promoting a new
model of urban development that is able to integrate all facets of sustainable development to promote
equity, welfare and shared prosperity. The model would focus on all levels of human settlements,
including small rural communities, villages, market towns, intermediate cities and metropolises for
social and economic growth.

48 U4SSC Factsheet | Valencia, Spain | June 2020