As Pakistan works towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, the role of local governance is critical. After the 18th Constitutional Amendment, local governments became responsible for delivering essential services like health, education, water, and sanitation—key areas for SDG progress. However, local authorities face challenges like limited financial resources, weak capacity, and poor coordination with provincial and federal governments. Addressing these challenges is crucial for meeting SDG targets and building climate resilience.

The Role of Local Governments in Development

Local governments are essential for delivering services that directly impact people’s lives. They handle healthcare (SDG 3), education (SDG 4), and clean water and sanitation (SDG 6). Unfortunately, many local governments lack the resources and independence to provide effective solutions for their communities, limiting their ability to address local issues, including climate adaptation.

Local Governments and Climate Resilience

Pakistan is highly vulnerable to climate change, facing frequent floods, droughts, and heatwaves. Local governments are often the first to respond to these disasters but lack the capacity to manage them effectively. Strengthening their governance, improving technical and financial support, and building climate resilience are essential for achieving SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Global Models and Lessons for Pakistan

Countries like Brazil, Rwanda, Sweden, and Germany have successfully empowered local governments to lead on SDG-related efforts. Decentralised governance has helped them improve education, healthcare, and climate adaptation, offering valuable lessons for Pakistan. The country’s low SDG ranking (137th in 2024) underscores the need for stronger local governance and a more localised approach to development.

Challenges in Local Governance

Pakistan’s local governments face several obstacles, including political instability, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and inadequate technical expertise. These issues hinder their ability to manage rapid urbanisation, rural development, and climate adaptation efforts effectively.

Strengthening Local Governance

To make progress, Pakistan must empower local governments with financial autonomy and build their institutional capacity. A decentralised, community-focused approach will allow for better service delivery and more effective solutions to local challenges. Coordination between national, provincial, and local authorities is also essential for addressing development and climate goals.

The National SDGs Conference in Islamabad recently emphasised the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement and the need for action on renewable energy, poverty reduction, and inclusive education policies. Aligning Pakistan’s strategies with global best practices and involving marginalized communities is key to achieving sustainable development.

Conclusion

Strengthening local governance is vital for Pakistan to meet its SDG targets and enhance climate resilience. By giving local governments more autonomy, resources, and capacity, and by learning from global models, Pakistan can improve its development outcomes and ensure progress reaches all regions of the country.