Search

Global Cities Hub

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

HIGHLIGHTS

root Added By root
July 8, 2025 2:00 pm
This high-level debate will enlighten opportunities Smart Cities bring to development and ways to overcome the limitations local leaders continue to face in disaster risk reduction. The event aims to discuss the questions of people-centered, climate resilient smart city development and the necessary immediate actions to mitigate risks.
root Added By root
On 30 June – 2 July 2025, GCH attended the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) in Sevilla to promote the localization of financing for development and better access of Local and Regional Governments (LRGs) to national and international financial resources.

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

The LSNG Coalition to End Plastic Pollution mobilizes ahead of INC 5.2

Geneva will host the second part of the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment (INC-5.2). The LSNG Coalition has mobilized ahead of the event to ensure that local and regional governments are heard.

GCH marks the closing of Italy’s 4th UPR cycle and highlights the role of LRGs in human rights

On the occasion of the adoption of the report of the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of Italy at the United Nations in Geneva on 30 June 2025, a reception was held at the Global Cities Hub. It offered a moment to celebrate the closing of Italy’s fourth UPR cycle and to highlight Italian-led initiatives aimed at strengthening local engagement in human rights.

From Paris (COP21) to Belem (COP30): Cities at the frontline of climate action

The Global Cities Hub participated in the Mayors’ Summit organized by Anne Hidalgo, Mayor of Paris, marking the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement. The event brought together city leaders from across the globe and served both as a celebration of progress and a mobilization ahead of COP30 in December 2025 in Belém, Brazil.