Malé City Council, with the technical support of ICLEI South Asia and UNESCAP, is undertaking the preparation of its first Voluntary Local Review (VLR). This initiative marks a significant step toward monitoring progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the local level. The VLR in Malé City will be a crucial tool for tracking progress toward the SDGs at the local level. 

From 18-19 December 2024, ICLEI South Asia and UNESCAP conducted an orientation and scoping meeting in Malé, bringing together representatives from both local and national governments. The objective of the meeting was to identify the Sustainable Development Goals and related targets that can be reported in the VLR. During the discussion with Male’s city council, it was agreed that the Voluntary Local Review (VLR) would be aligned with the United Nations 5Ps framework (People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership) and the seven pillars of Malé’s Strategic Action Plan. These pillars include Digital Malé, Beautiful Malé, Housing for the People, Appealing Road Network, Affluent Living, Approachable Council, and Efficient Administration, ensuring a comprehensive and locally tailored approach to sustainable development.  There are nine SDGs selected to report on the VLR. The VLR process in Malé City helps to consolidate development efforts led by the city council, ensuring that local actions align with global sustainability targets.

A consultation workshop with all key stakeholders is planned as the next step to identify the city’s major challenges and determine the targets for reporting on the selected SDGs. Following these discussions, ICLEI SA will initiate the collection and compilation of data from relevant departments.