This publication results from widespread participation in a UNDP network discussion entitled Towards a "Local Governance and Development Agenda: Lessons and Challenges". The report aims to summarize and disseminate this interesting e-discussion, and to link people, knowledge products and projects related to these relevant topics, from the local to the global area and vice versa. Its views, approaches and strategies should contribute to current debates, and lead to more effective support from UNDP, UNCDF and UN-HABITAT in helping societies attain high-quality local governance. Good local governance must be the main vehicle to reach social inclusion, the reduction of inequality and sustainable human development at the local level.