United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon announced on 31st of July 2012 the members of a High-Level Panel to advise on the global development agenda beyond 2015, the target date for achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Among the 20 personalities of this High-Level Panel, Mr. Kadir Topbas, Mayor of Istanbul and President of UCLG, has been nominated. This nomination comes as recognition of the work accomplished by our Organization and its members towards the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals.
According to a recent study, the goals set on reduction of poverty, slums and access to water will be achieved; it is worth highlighting that these are fields in which the actions of local and regional authorities is of particular relevance.
Mr. Ban Ki-moon asked the High-Level Panel to prepare a bold yet practical development vision. The Panel will hold its first meeting in September, in the framework of the United Nations General Assembly. It is expected to submit its findings to the Secretary-General in the first half of 2013.