Search

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
12 October 2026 10:00
Join over 60 mayors from all over the world at the 6th meeting of the UN Forum of Mayors “Cities Delivering for a Sustainable Future”. Bring your local perspectives to the discussions on sustainable cities, water and sanitation, innovation and creativity, affordable and clean energy, housing, Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs) and more!
Global Cities Hub Added By Global Cities Hub
08 October 2026 14:30
At the Building Bridges 2026 Summit, GCH and SDSN co-organize the event “Aligning Policy and Finance to Deliver Sustainable Local Development”. Join us to discuss how policy alignment, innovative financing structures, and stronger partnerships can help bring sustainable finance closer to the cities and communities where it is needed most.
Global Cities Hub Added By Global Cities Hub
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.

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.

Why Local Governments Must Have a Voice in Global Discussions on Sea-Level Rise

At the 63rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC), the GCH participated in the side-event “Coastal Cities, Towns & Settlements on the Front Line”. Sea-level rise is no longer only an environmental concern. It is a human rights issue, affecting housing, health, and livelihoods. While the challenge is global, its consequences are felt locally.