Spreading as a wave across the globe, the COVID-19 pandemic is one of the greatest challenges of our times.

Countries are taking extreme measures to fight the virus and to slow the spread through widespread testing, treating patients, quarantining communities, cancelling events and large gatherings. Heath systems all over the word are faltering.

But the COVID-19 pandemic is much more than a health crisis. The world is faced with a global emergency with potential unprecedented long term economic and social repercussions.

While the crisis is global, the local level is where the impacts are most felt – and where innovative solutions need to be adopted.

Local and regional governments across the globe have taken up their responsibility for the management of the current crisis as the level of government closest to the people. Measures have been taken to protect the most vulnerable people of the society, to support local economies and SMEs as well as the arts and cultural sectors, to protect workers, while adapting and shaping public services to deliver in the new isolation context. Meanwhile, national governments, United Nations entities, foundations, and others are adopting measures to support local government COVID-19 response and recovery efforts. SMEs, civil society organizations, and other local actors are bolstering efforts in their own communities.

Local2030 is convinced that local efforts are essential to win the fight against COVID-19. Every city and territory must be prepared to respond and recover from the crisis. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) offer a framework to do so. Rooted in the principles of inclusion and universality, the SDGs can help our communities and societies emerge from the crisis, while paving the way for a sustainable recovery and future.

To support local efforts, Local2030 facilitates innovative collaboration, pooling knowledge and cutting-edge expertise to handle and defeat COVID-19. 

This interactive platform allows the Local2030 community to share stories, engage in discussions and access news, trainings and tools in order to prepare, respond and recover from the COVID-19 outbreak. It aims to strengthen coordination and cooperation in these difficult times. 

Furthermore, in its effort to support partners throughout the globe in responding and recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, Local2030 is thrilled to announce the launch of the Local2030 Spotlight Series.  

The Local2030 Spotlight Series aims to shine a spotlight on the challenges faced, solutions developed, and partnerships enhanced, at the local level, in the fight against COVID-19.

Videos can be recorded with a simple smartphone or camera and uploaded to Dropbox or shared via Twitter. To know more watch the video below or click on the following link: Local2030 Spotlight Series

Let’s work together to fight the virus and plan inclusive, resilient and sustainable societies ahead!