This document is the result of the Local Migration Governance Indicators (MGI) assessment in São Paulo and summarizes the well-developed areas of the city’s migration governance structures, as well as the areas with potential for further development, as assessed by the Local MGI.

The role of cities and municipalities in migration governance has grown significantly in recent decades, given the rapid pace of urbanization and the importance of cities as destinations for all forms of migration and displacement. 

With this in mind, in 2016, UN Member States adopted the New Urban Agenda (NUA) at the Habitat III Conference in Quito (Ecuador). Its adoption was a significant recognition of the role of local governments not only in the management of migration at the local level but also in realizing the urban dimensions of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including, but not limited, to Sustainable Development Goal 11, which has been designed to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. 

In an effort to support the discussion between different levels of governments on migration governance, IOM has adapted the MGI to the local level (Local MGI). The Local MGI seeks to offer a more comprehensive picture of a country’s migration governance landscape by juxtaposing a local dimension to MGI national assessments. Like its national equivalent, the Local MGI is based on a set of 87 indicators helping local authorities take stock of local migration strategies or initiatives in place and identify good practices as well as areas with potential for further development. The aim of the exercise is to foster the dialogue on migration between national governments and local authorities and enable local authorities to learn from one another by discussing common challenges and identify potential solutions. 

The Local MGI was rolled out in three cities: Accra, Montréal and São Paulo.