At the United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) Global Task Force meeting, Nehmat Kaur, Director of the Under2 Coalition, delivered a keynote address emphasising the vital role of subnational governments in advancing climate action and sustainability.
Distinguished members of the United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) Global Task Force and esteemed colleagues.
It's an honor to be here today at this pivotal gathering to formally mark the Under2 Coalition’s membership in the UCLG Global Task Force.
This moment represents unity between different levels of subnational governments and a collective determination as we stand together to forge a path toward a resilient, equitable, and sustainable future.
The Under2 Coalition was founded with a bold mission: to accelerate climate action. Our coalition comprises nearly 200 states, regions, and provinces, including Catalonia, where we are all gathered today. These states, regions, and provinces are committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 or earlier. Collectively, we represent more than 1.75 billion people across 35 countries on six continents, accounting for approximately 50% of the global economy.
States, regions, and provinces play a unique role in global climate action. Their flexibility and proximity to realities on the ground allow subnational governments to pilot transformative solutions that can be scaled nationally and internationally.
Our members have demonstrated remarkable progress. On average, Under2 Coalition states and regions have reduced their emissions by 16% from their respective base years, even as global emissions rose by approximately 42% between 1990 and 2015. This achievement underscores the power of subnational action in driving meaningful climate solutions.
Subnational governments are pivotal in implementing climate policies and driving sustainable development. In 2019, they accounted for an average of 69% of climate-significant investment across 32 OECD and EU countries. Moreover, it is estimated that 50% to 80% of the actions required for climate adaptation and mitigation will be executed at the subnational or local level.
As we gather to review the GTF’s joint work program and set the international agenda for 2025, it is clear that subnational governments are driving significant progress in advancing key milestones such as the UN Oceans Conference, COP30, and the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development. Subnational leadership will be essential as we prepare for global milestones like the World Social Summit in Doha and the UN Habitat Assembly.
The Under2 Coalition’s vision aligns closely with this meeting’s focus: ensuring that subnational actions continue to shape global agendas, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). States and regions are critical to implementing the Local2030 agenda and accelerating progress on sustainable energy, resilient infrastructure, and equitable development.
Our contribution as part of this task force will focus on three priorities:
Amplifying subnational voices in global decision-making
Subnational governments have unique insights and solutions, given their proximity to communities and their lived realities. We will work to ensure that subnational perspectives are not only heard but central to global conversations on climate and sustainable development. The Under2 Coalition will actively promote the voices of vulnerable communities, particularly those on the frontlines of climate change
Driving bold climate and SDG action
The Under2 Coalition is committed to aligning our climate action goals with the SDGs, particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Through this task force, we will champion policies and initiatives that address both climate goals and development priorities. Our work will be aimed at creating just, inclusive transitions that leave no one behind, especially as we prepare for key events such as the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development.
Strengthening global solidarity and action toward 2025 and beyond
With the post-2030 agenda in sight, the stakes are higher than ever. Our joint efforts over the next few years will define the path for future generations. By reinforcing global solidarity, particularly in financing for sustainable development, adaptation, and capacity-building, we can ensure that subnational priorities remain central to the post-2030 framework. We will also work to secure fair access to resources and climate finance for our regions, especially the most vulnerable.
As we approach this critical year, we must remain united in our pursuit of transformative action. We're excited to join UCLG because climate can no longer be tackled in silos. Together, we are leading global efforts to advance a sustainable and equitable future.
Thank you for welcoming the Under2 Coalition into this extraordinary task force. We're committed to working hand-in-hand with all of you to strengthen the collective voice of subnational governments. The time for transformative action is now. Let’s rise to the occasion—together.
Thank you.