New Strategic Framework to guide GCH’s work for 2025-2028

As we embark on a new year, a new strategic framework will guide the GCH’s work over the next 4 years, through 2028. This document provides our partners with a clear blueprint about GCH’s vision, mission and values, along with its objectives and how to achieve them.

Celebrating its 5^th Anniversary in March, the GCH envisages a world in which local and regional governments (LRGs) are recognized as full-fledged actors in multilateral governance and actively strengthen its overall effectiveness to respond more effectively to global challenges. As such, the GCH’s mission is twofold:

• contribute to a more inclusive and effective multilateralism by strengthening LRG’s influence in Geneva-based multilateral processes;
• promote the “urban” on the agenda of International Geneva, by providing it with a space to discuss urban issues.

Three core objectives will lie at the heart of the GCH’s work:

• becoming the main platform for international urban diplomacy;
• increasing LRG’s influence at the international level;
• identifying future international trends that matter for cities.

To realize these objectives, the GCH will convene relevant events; connect LRGs and their networks with the United Nations and other international organizations; champion the role and perspectives of LRGs in relevant multilateral processes; and support capacity building for LRGs by serving as an information hub and a reliable resource for insights and advice on key urban topics and actors.

In terms of thematic engagement, the GCH will seek to accelerate the Sustainable Development Goals locally and prepare cities and regions for the post-2030 Agenda. The local dimension of specific topics will be the focus of the GCH’s work, namely: human rights, urban health, the protection of the environment, climate change, sustainable urban development and smart cities. The GCH will also engage with selected multilateral bodies, such as the UN Forum of Mayors, the UN Human Rights Council or the UN Environment Assembly. By taking part in diverse multilateral initiatives and building effective partnerships and alliances, the GCH will build the foundations to achieve its long-term objective: a dedicated role for LRGs in multilateralism, including a status for them to take part in the UN in their own capacity.

Download the Strategic Framework to guide GCH’s work for 2025-2028