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Global Cities Hub

Connecting local and regional governments to the United Nations and other international organizations
 

HIGHLIGHTS

Global Cities Hub Added By Global Cities Hub
The 6th UN Forum of Mayors concluded in Geneva after bringing together representatives of more than 90 cities worldwide, including 70 represented by their mayors or deputy mayors. This was the largest edition of the Forum to date, demonstrating its growing reach and importance since its establishment in 2020. The 7th UN Forum of Mayors will take place on 4–5 October 2027.
Global Cities Hub Added By Global Cities Hub
The 6th United Nations Forum of Mayors opens today (12 Oct. 2026) in Geneva under the theme “Cities Delivering for a Sustainable Future”, bringing together the highest number of mayors and city leaders from around the world in its history. They will exchange on the most pressing challenges facing urban communities, focusing on SDG 11 (Sustainable cities & communities).
Global Cities Hub Added By Global Cities Hub
At Building Bridges 2026, our panel, “Aligning Policy and Finance to Deliver Sustainable Local Development: Mobilizing Finance to Reach Cities,” explored a critical question: how can we ensure that finance reaches the cities and communities where it is needed most? Cities are on the frontlines of climate change, yet many Local and Regional Governments (LRGs) face barriers to financing.

TOPICS

The Global Cities Hub is at the forefront of linking LRGs and international organizations to address the most pressing challenges faced by urban centers worldwide. Engaged in a diverse array of initiatives, GCH fosters collaboration among cities,  mayors and city networks to strengthen inclusive multilateralism in the Geneva ecosystem, including the United Nations. Our work spans critical areas including environment and climate change, smart city development, protection of human rights, and promotion of urban health. By facilitating knowledge exchange and joint action, we aim to create sustainable, inclusive, and resilient urban environments for all.

 

NEWS

GCH co-chairs ITU Working Group on AI

GCH is proud to co-chair the Working Group on “Outreach and Engagement” of ITU’s Focus Group on AI for Smart Sustainable Cities and Communities. This international collaboration brings city administrations and technology experts together to identify where standards and related guidance can help create the conditions to turn AI opportunities into tangible benefits.

Countering anti-migrant narratives locally

GCH participated in a UN Human Rights Council event focusing on the critical role of local and regional governments (LRGs) in countering anti-migrant narratives. LRGs, being the level of government closest to, and usually also the most trusted by citizens, are uniquely positioned to foster inclusive communities and counteract discrimination.

Strengthening Democratic Local Governance

GCH hosted the webinar Why Local Democracy Matters for a More Prosperous World, bringing together experts from international and national level to discuss how democratic local governance can contribute to stronger, more prosperous and inclusive societies. GCH’s new publication Strengthening Democratic Local Governance to Advance Human Prosperity was officially launched.