Track 01 Data

As a first step, it is recommended to precisely map regional competences, at the highest possible level of granularity, against the targets of Agenda 2030. The outcome can be a table showing connections, targets that might not fall under the region’s competence, and competences that do not relate to any SDG target. This helps clarify the scope of a regional SDG strategy and the focus of following activities. It is communicatively impactful to also produce a graphical overview of connections.

It is now possible to start mapping existing policies, initiatives, available funding and data of relevance for sustainable development.

The exercise should provide a baseline for assessing how the region is currently addressing the SDGs. It is suggested to include broader national and local SDG efforts.

Before starting to plan, in fact, it is key to have a comprehensive overview of frameworks and initiatives that are external to the region but relevant for its SDG action and identify those to which the region’s strategy actions should align.

To support evidence-based SDG-related action and monitoring, it is necessary to build a solid indicator framework. This process should be supported by the regional statistical office – if available – or of the National Statistics Office (NSO). The process should involve a comprehensive review of current data collection tools and sources across the statistical system, focusing on data sources, comparability, and frequency.

Engaging both data producers and users – as well as other relevant stakeholders – can help ensure mapping and build awareness of SDG data requirements. Regions should tailor the to their data collection capabilities, considering available human resources and ‘data infrastructure’. Examples of regional indicators can be found here.

Alternative indicator sources

Geospatial Data

Satellite imagery and location-based data offer powerful tools for identifying vulnerable groups and assessing environmental conditions, particularly in informal settlements where traditional data collection is difficult. This information can be gathered through participatory spatial mapping processes or focus group discussions.

Citizens-Generated Data (CGD)

Data generated by citizens, communities or organizations can provide critical insights into regional needs and priorities, serving as a valuable resource for shaping SDG related policies.

Privately held Data

Business-generated data, including from corporate sustainable development reporting,canshedlightonacompany’simpactonmarginalizedgroupsandhelp reveal broader societal patterns and trends.

Administrative Data

Data gathered by government agencies and NGOs through routine operations can be leveraged to address gaps in official statistics.

*Source: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) & the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data. 2020. The 2030 Agenda’s Data Challenge – Approaches to Alternative and Digital Data Collection and Use, Eschborn.

Once an indicator framework has been established, the region can consider developing an SDG Data platform or dashboard. These type of digital platforms or dashboards help visualize and track progress toward the SDGs. This is relevant to adopt a data-driven approach to the implementation and review of the SDGs, supporting evidence-based planning and policy making.

Data platforms are an important tool to support decision-making by identifying gaps, progress and challenges. They also increase transparency and accountability for stakeholders and citizens, facilitate participation, and provide a ready information base to produce a regional SDG report.

* Source: The 2020 SDG Index for Flemish Cities Construction and Analysis, UNU-CRIS 2021

Regions can impactfully contribute to global reporting by producing Voluntary local reviews (VLRs). Though not officially recognized by the UN, VLRs have become a cornerstone of SDG tracking and play a role that goes beyond accounting quantitative progress: they present replicable best practices and show how regions and cities have translated Agenda 2030 into a roadmap to address local needs and unfold local potential by setting up institutional frameworks and transformative solutions. Ensuring a strong connection between VLRs and VNRs is key to fostering multi-level cooperation and reinforcing the importance and effectiveness of SDG localization.

The Follow-up and Review Process

The 2030 Agenda outlines a robust, voluntary, effective, participatory, transparent and integrated follow-up and review framework. It encourages countries to regularly conduct Voluntary National Reviews. The reviews should be “inclusive reviews of the progress at national and subnational levels, which are country-led and country-driven”. The Agenda moreover calls for reviews to provide a platform for partnerships, including through the participation of relevant stakeholders.

The SDGs are tracked using a framework of 231 global indicators, many of which can be adapted for regional use by collecting data locally. National and subnational indicators are developed to complement the global indicator framework and to track progress on national and subnational strategies and plans.

At the national level, sub-national data should be taken into account in reviewing result of national SDG strategies and plans. Localizing the follow-up and review of the 2030 Agenda entails developing local indicator and carrying out review at the subnational level i.e. in the form of Voluntary Local Reviews. In addition, it is vital to ensure data collected at the subnational level is included in national monitoring and reporting, enabling participation of the Local and Regional

Governments (LRGs) and stakeholders in review efforts, and ensuring regional and local achievements are recognized and part of the Voluntary National Reviews.