Monitoring SDG localisation: an evidence-based approach to standardised monitoring frameworks

Abstract This article studies closeness between indicators that local governments use to monitor Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) implementation in their Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs) and those included the standardised set of European Handbook for SDG Reviews. To do so, it develops an index ‘indicator proximity’ through a qualitative semantic comparison 2354 used sample 29 VLRs 72 Handbook’s set. The includes absolute relative scores, taking into consideration size, comprehensiveness diversity indicator sets sample, as well methodological features allows identify with higher or lower proximity SDGs elicit degree standard metrics selected defined by governments. output shows have overall significant proximity; variables such government type size VLR not provide additional explanation can be monitored locally accessible affordable data proximity.