Local government is at the heart of much of what is essential for the delivery of the MDG commitments. In many countries, it is local councils that manage water supplies, collect and dispose of waste, plan and run local primary health clinics, provide environmental protection and agricultural outreach services, and encourage and support local enterprise.

Local Government also has a core role to play in building communities and ensuring a citizen focussed approach to development. The UK Government, like all other Commonwealth Governments, has formally committed to the Commonwealth Principles on Good Practice for Local Democracy and Good Governance (the Aberdeen Agenda) as core principles to promote local democracy and good governance.

Take a look at our Prospectus for Local Government Engagement and the Local Government & the MDGs - Interaction factsheet for more information.