"United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) held a virtual event to discuss the findings of two reports on the UN’s 75th anniversary: an update on the global consultation conducted by the UN75 office, and a “visioning report” by the Global Taskforce of Local and Regional Governments. Mayors from around the world and others emphasized the need to decentralize decision-making, and called for a “seat at the table” for local and regional governments at the UN.
The UCLG publication titled, ‘Visioning Report UN75: The Role of Local and Regional Governments in the Future Global Governance of the International System,’ was developed as part of the UN75 global consultation. It calls for a “new generation of multilateralism” that treats local democracy as central for peaceful societies. It notes that the COVID-19 pandemic has shed light on shortcomings of the current multilateral model. Stressing the need for cooperation between different spheres of government and different actors, the authors highlight that local and regional governments (LRGs) are ready to ensure that the livelihoods of their communities drive global policies. According to the visioning report, putting communities at the center would help to create a world in which public services are provided, local consumption and production patterns are promoted, and an inter-city system builds on the strength of cities and regions."
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