Urban Data

An urban observatory is a local network of stakeholders responsible for producing, analyzing and disseminating data on a meaningful set of indicators that reflect collectively prioritized issues on sustainable development in a given area or country. Data and information resources produced by the local network are used to support decision making and the formulation of evidence-informed policies. An urban observatory is therefore a focal point for urban monitoring at the local or national level, provides a platform to facilitate data collection, analysis, interpretation and reporting on performance against different indicators, and supports effective knowledge exchange and evidence-based governance. Specifically, an urban observatory aims at achieving the following: • Develop, collect and analyze data on a set of localized indicators to monitor a range of local or national priority issues – e.g. social development, economic performance, service delivery, etc. • Establish permanent mechanisms for monitoring SDGs and Urban indicators • Promote the use of urban data in planning and policymaking at local and national level • Disseminate information to strengthen accountability and transparency • Promote local ownership of urban indicator systems and a culture of monitoring and assessment