Very pleased to speak earlier today at the High-Level Policy Dialogue on Local Government and Decentralization hosted by the Ministry of Local Government, Government of #Liberia. Decentralization remains a critical component of democratic governance agenda in any country or region. #Liberia is not an exception. However, it should not be seen as just a transfer of authority from the national level to local structures.   Being mindful of avoiding deconcentration of central public administration, it should be seen as bringing services, resources and required political, legal, and administrative authorities closer to citizenry with strengthened participation, local governance, and respecting bottom-up development priorities. As Liberia advances this agenda, inclusive local governance must intentionally: I.               Promote women’s meaningful participation in the process of decentralization; II.              Strengthen gender-responsive planning and budgeting at the country level; and III.            Improve accountability between local institutions and the communities they serve;   We must ensure that we do not leave anyone behind at the local level in the true spirit of the inclusive development agenda. #SDGs #LNOB @unwomenliberia stands ready to continue its collaboration with the Government of #Liberia