On 8 November 2024 in Cairo, Egypt, a One UN event titled “Knowledge in Action: Bridging Policy and Practice through Scientific Research for SDG Localization” at the Twelfth Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12) explored how research and policy can come together to localize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This event was organized by the Local2030 Knowledge and Scientific Network (KSN), a key initiative of the Local2030 Coalition, in collaboration with UN-Habitat, Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN, CeSPI ETS and the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The session brought together policymakers, practitioners, researchers and PhD students to exchange ideas on driving meaningful local actions informed by global knowledge. 

A Platform for Collaboration and Learning 

The event was structured to foster collaboration and learning, starting with presentations on international initiatives that bridge academia, policymaking and sustainable development. Highlights included:  

• Araucaria Foundation, Brazil: Showcased their partnerships that extend beyond academia to engage a wide range of stakeholders in Paraná State. 

• Yup Cities Project: Highlighted the power of youth involvement in participatory processes and sustainability education through the "Lesson 0 for Sustainability" initiative. 

• Changemakers Initiative, Italy: Demonstrated evidence-based approaches to urban regeneration, supported by the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security. 

These presentations set the stage for a deep dive into the national contexts of Tunisia and Jordan, two pilot countries of the KSN. The Mayor of Irbid, Jordan, and a representative from National Federation of Tunisian Municipalities shared successes and challenges in SDG localization. In addition, the Tunisian and Jordanian KSN researchers shared insights from their projects, addressing some of the mentioned challenges. 

Key Themes Discussed 

The discussions underscored several critical themes essential to advancing SDG localization:  

• Bridging Knowledge and Policy: Integrating global science initiatives with local policies to prevent fragmented efforts and ensure a holistic approach to SDG implementation. 

• Youth Involvement and Inclusive Participation: Empowering young people and fostering inclusive participation are essential for advancing sustainable development and making informed decisions at the local level. 

• Universities as Key Local Actors: With 250 million students globally, universities play a vital role in reshaping development models to prioritize sustainability over economic growth. 

• Data and Research-Driven Policy: Research-driven initiatives, such as impact evaluations and community engagement, improve policymaking and data measurement. 

• Localized Solutions for Specific Challenges: Practical examples from Tunisia and Jordan illustrate that collaborations between universities, municipalities and the private sector help address local challenges, such as urban resilience and social inclusion, effectively, leading to impactful and sustainable development. 

Recommendations for Action 

The session concluded with actionable recommendations for advancing SDG localization: 

• Strengthen Collaborative Frameworks: Foster partnerships between global science initiatives, local governments and universities to turn research into actionable policies. 

• Empower Youth: Create platforms for youth and diverse stakeholders to actively engage in policy-making and sustainable development projects. 

• Shift Development Metrics: Encourage universities to develop and implement alternative data models that prioritize sustainability over traditional economic growth indicators. 

• Promote Research-Driven Approaches: Promote the use of co-designed research methods, such as surveys and city forums, to align SDG targets with local realities for better-informed policies and impact assessment. 

• Facilitate Partnerships: Enhance collaboration among municipalities, universities and private sector to leverage resources, expertise and public spaces for community-focused, inclusive and sustainable development. 

Conclusion 

The Knowledge in Action side event at WUF12 demonstrated the critical need for bridging academic knowledge with policies to advance the SDGs. By fostering partnerships, empowering youth and leveraging data-driven approaches, this event set the foundation for innovative, localized solutions that can create a sustainable and inclusive future for communities worldwide.  

About Knowledge and Scientific Network 

The Knowledge and Scientific Network, a key initiative of the Local2030 Coalition, bridges the gap between academic knowledge and policy-making by integrating insights from academia with practical needs of decision-makers. The KSN reaches across the world, involving various continents and fields of study, with a specific focus on interventions in two pilot countries: Jordan and Tunisia. The KSN engages researchers, particularly youth from Africa, Asia, and Latin America, to develop and implement research-based solutions. Through training programmes and research labs, the KSN transforms academic discussions into actionable policies, advancing SDG localization worldwide.