Organised by the UNDP Bangkok Regional Hub and the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES), with CityNet and the City of Yokohama (Japan) as co-organisers. As an official side-event of the 13th Asia-Pacific Pacific Sustainable Development Forum (APFSD13) with the theme, “Transformative, equitable, innovative and coordinated actions for the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs”, the event explored how Future-Ready urban governance and Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs) can together accelerate SDG 11 and city-level SDG localization across Asia-Pacific.

As the region’s cities drive growth, innovation, and opportunity, they also face mounting pressures from fragmented governance, climate risks, and widening inequalities. Responding to these challenges requires governance systems that are adaptive, anticipatory, and agile, supported by strong leadership, cross-sector coordination, and inclusive partnerships. VLRs are emerging as a key governance tool to translate these capabilities into action – moving beyond reporting to align policies, mobilise stakeholders, influence behaviour, and embed SDG outcomes into long-term urban planning and investment decisions.

Drawing on experiences from cities such as Yokohama, Bangkok, Baguio, and Dhaka, with insights from other stakeholders, the session highlighted how Future-Ready urban governance and VLRs are advancing sustainable urbanisation through initiatives such as circular economy practices and people-centred urban development. The event also showcased the role of city networks and knowledge hubs in scaling successful practices – building momentum towards major regional and global milestones, including GREEN×EXPO and APUF-9 in Yokohama in 2027.