Malé City has officially launched its first Voluntary Local Review (VLR) 2025, marking a historic milestone in the city's journey toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The launch, spearheaded by the Malé City Council, represents a "declaration of intent" to transform the capital into a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable island city. Developed with technical support from ICLEI-South Asia and the United Nations ESCAP, the VLR serves as a data-driven roadmap to align local governance with global standards.

A People-Centered Vision : 

During the launch, officials emphasized that the VLR is built on the foundation of partnerships and community engagement. By moving beyond traditional municipal services, the City Council aims to address the holistic needs of its residents.

The review specifically prioritizes three critical pillars for the community:

* Strengthened Housing: Addressing urban density and ensuring equitable access to quality living spaces.

* Climate Resilience: Protecting the island's unique environment against the escalating threats of climate change.

* Inclusive Growth: Empowering all residents—including youth and marginalized groups—to ensure no one is left behind.

Strategic Framework : 

The Malé City VLR 2025 is uniquely aligned with the United Nations 5Ps (People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership) and the city's own Strategic Action Plan. Key focus areas identified during the stakeholder consultations include waste management, mental health, and water conservation.

"In Malé, the SDGs are not abstract concepts; they are a lifeline for our city's resilience," the Council noted. "Localizing these goals is essential to transforming global commitments into tangible outcomes that improve lives."

As a leader in regional sustainable urban development, Malé City’s VLR will now serve as a baseline for future policy-making, resource allocation, and transparent governance.