The transition from the Millennium Development Goals to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has led to a global agenda that is clearly related to issues of local governance. As a result, the ‘Agenda 2030’ confronts Dutch local authorities with questions about their role and responsibilities in the implementation of these ‘global goals’.

In this discussion paper, Kaleidos Research sheds a light on the roles and responsibilities of local governments using a mixed methods approach consisting of a literature review, interviews, survey research among 50 local government representatives, and a focus group discussion. It is found that Dutch local governments are willing to contribute to this global agenda, but in a pragmatic manner.